What is lichen striatus?

Lichen striatus is a skin rash.  It has tiny pink bumps in a lined pattern. The bumps most often are on the arms or legs but they may also be on the face, neck, chest or buttocks. The skin in and around the bumps often looks bleached out or lighter than normal skin.

Lichen striatus normally does not itch or cause other symptoms.  Girls are affected two to three times more than boys. It is most common in children between five and ten years of age.  It is most often seen in the spring and summer months.  

What causes it? 

The exact cause is not known.  It is not dangerous and does not spread from person to person (not contagious).  

How is it diagnosed?

It is easily diagnosed by looking at the rash and the skin around the rash.  Rarely a sample of the skin (biopsy) is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

How is it treated?

This condition gets better without treatment.  It comes on suddenly and is the worst after several days to a few weeks. Most often it goes away within three to twelve months, but may last up to two years.  Once the bumps have flattened they may leave an area where the skin is lighter (hypopigmented).  This can last one to three years before it is completely gone.