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Lichenified

Lichenified means the skin has become thickened and leathery. This often results from continuously rubbing or scratching the skin.

Chronic irritation due to conditions such as eczema can cause lichenified skin. Moisturizers and topical steroids are usually used to treat lichenified skin.

References

Dinulos JGH. Principles of diagnosis and anatomy. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 1.

Swanson E. Morphology of primary and secondary skin lesions. In: High WA, Prok LD, eds. Dermatology Secrets. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 2.

Review Date: 11/4/2020  

Reviewed By: Elika Hoss, MD, Senior Associate Consultant, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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