Lichen Nitidus - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Medically reviewed by Dr. Anand S. Urhekar, MD, MD Pathology, Clinical Advisor · Last updated July 2026
An uncommon, harmless condition producing crops of pinhead-sized (1–2 mm), shiny, flat-topped, flesh-coloured or slightly pale papules, typically on the forearms, abdomen, chest and genitals of children and young adults. Most cases resolve without treatment within a year.
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Quick Answer
Lichen nitidus consists of crops of tiny (1–2 mm) shiny, flat-topped, flesh-coloured bumps, usually on the forearms, abdomen, chest or genitals of children and young adults. It is harmless, usually itch-free, and most cases clear spontaneously within a year. No treatment is needed; topical steroid or calcineurin inhibitors are used if the rash is itchy or cosmetically troublesome.
Symptoms
- Numerous 1–2 mm shiny flat-topped papules
- Flesh-coloured, or pale on darker skin
- Clustered on forearms, abdomen, chest, penis
- Usually no itch
- May appear in a line where the skin was scratched (Koebner phenomenon)
Causes & Risk Factors
- Unknown; a T-cell mediated inflammatory reaction
- Most common in children and young adults
- Occasionally associated with lichen planus
Treatment & Management
- Observation — most cases resolve spontaneously
- Topical corticosteroid if itchy
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors for facial or genital involvement
- Narrowband UVB phototherapy for extensive persistent disease
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor to confirm the diagnosis, especially if the rash is widespread, itchy, involves the nails, or is not fading after a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is lichen nitidus contagious?
No. It is an immune-mediated inflammatory condition and cannot be passed to others, including through genital contact when lesions occur on the penis.
How long does it last?
Most cases clear within a few months to a year without any treatment, leaving no scar. A minority persist for several years.
Related Conditions
Medical References
Information on this page is sourced from and verified against reputable medical resources:
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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content on this page should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of your condition.