Pathology of chronic lichenoid keratosis

Introduction

Keratosis Lichenoides Chronica (KLC) is characterized by violaceous, papular and nodular injuries in a linear or reticulated pattern.

Histology of chronic lichenoid keratosis

Histologically, chronic lichenoid keratosis is characterized by a lichenoid reaction pattern with marking basal cell death and vacuolate degeneration (Figures 1-3). the dermal infiltrate displays a mixture of cells that may include plasma cells. the epidermal changes are highly variable acanthosis, parakeratosis and atrophy are all the features described. Cornoids lamellae and eccrine infiltrators have been described

Special spots for chronic lichenoid keratosis

Generally none is needed. PAS staining can be useful to exclude a superficial fungus infection.

Differential diagnosis of chronic lichenoid keratosis

Diagnosis is difficult without clinical correlation. Some authors think that this is probably unusual. chronic form of lichen planus.

Pityriasis lichenoids may show similarity pathology but it has a different clinical presentation.