MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Lichen simplex chronicus on the back

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Lichen simplex chronicus on the back

Lichen simplex chronicus is also known as neurodermatitis. A minor itch may encourage scratching which increases the irritation, leading to more scratching. This ultimately results in a rough, scratched (excoriated), thickened skin surface that may develop increased pigmentation (hyperpigmentation).

Update Date: 10/16/2006

Updated by: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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