It is a type of a skin disorder which is characterized by scratching and chronic itching. The constant scratching results in leathery, brownish, thick skin. It results in stubborn itchy rash which occur in some people with sensitive skin and it is also referred to as localized eczema. It can be found in every four to five people out of every thousand people. The irritation result in itching which results in scratching which further leads to irritation and hence the skin gets damaged.

Cause

The exact cause of lichen simplex chronicus is unknown. It is believed to be caused by a localized defect of the skin.     The defect results in itching of the skin which results in scratching and rubbing, which results in rashes known as lichen simplex chronicus. It is neither contagious nor related to general health. People suffering from this disease have a dry skin which gets easily irritated by detergents, soap and rough wool clothing. It also gets aggravated by hot and cold weather.

Symptoms

It results in itching of the skin which could be chronic, intense and might increase with nervous tension or stress. It results in skin lesion which is accompanied with exaggerated skin lines over the lesion, circumscribed lesion with distinct borders, leathery textured lesion and scratch marks. The other symptom is scaling which is found on the neck, ankle, wrist, thighs, forearms, lower leg and inner elbow.

Treatment

No permanent treatment is possible as eczema patients have a constitutional skin defect. There are many effective methods of controlling it such as Epitrex and similar other natural treatments. Vaseline and cortisone compounds are the best medicines for controlling lichen simple chronicus. Large areas of the body which are treated with strong cortisone preparations require periodic check ups.

The first treatment required to be done is not to scratch the skin and this might include counseling in order to become aware of the importance of not scratching. The inflammation and itching can be treated with a steroid creams or lotions which are applied to the affected area. Peeling ointments which contain salicylic acid can be used on thickened lesions. Soaps or lotions which contain coal tar are also recommended.

Dressing which cover and protect the affected area might be used with or without topical medications leaving them in place for at least a week or more at a time.

One can take precautions in the form of    wearing cool clothes and avoiding make up and perfumes and staying in a cool environment.