Erosive Lichen Planus of the Scalp and Hepatitis C Infection
January 2013
TLDR Patients with lichen planus should be tested for hepatitis C.
A 51-year-old man with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection presented with erosive lichen planus (LP) of the scalp, characterized by ulcerated lesions and localized alopecia. Histological examination confirmed the diagnosis, showing typical LP features. The patient was treated with 20 mg prednisolone daily for 6 weeks, resulting in lesion regression and hair regrowth. While some studies suggested a link between HCV and LP, others found no correlation, indicating geographic and genetic factors might play a role. The study recommended HCV serology testing in patients with LP due to the potential association.