LICHEN ANNULATUS Meaning and
Definition
-
Lichen annulatus is a skin condition characterized by the presence of small, flat, pink or brownish-red papules arranged in a ring or circular pattern. This condition is considered a rare type of lichenoid eruption that primarily affects children and young adults, although it can occur at any age. The papules usually develop on the trunk, buttocks, or thighs, and they may be slightly scaly or have a smooth surface. Lichen annulatus is typically asymptomatic, meaning it does not cause any pain or discomfort, and it is usually not associated with any other systemic symptoms.
The etiology of lichen annulatus is still mostly unknown, although it is believed to have immune-mediated origins and to be associated with certain genetic predispositions. The diagnosis of lichen annulatus is usually made based on the characteristic appearance of the skin lesions, with the help of a clinical examination. However, a skin biopsy may be necessary in some cases to confirm the diagnosis.
Lichen annulatus is generally a benign and self-limiting condition, with most cases resolving spontaneously within a few months to years. As it is usually asymptomatic, treatment is not always required. However, patients may seek medical intervention for cosmetic reasons or if the lesions persist or cause significant distress. Treatment options for lichen annulatus include topical corticosteroids, retinoids, or phototherapy, which may help in reducing the appearance or hastening the resolution of the skin lesions. Regular monitoring and follow-ups with a healthcare provider are recommended to ensure the condition does not progress or develop into other related skin disorders.
-
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LICHEN ANNULATUS
- lichen annulatuc
- lichen annulatuq
- lichen annulatur
- l ichen annulatus
- li chen annulatus
- lic hen annulatus
- lich en annulatus
- liche n annulatus
- lichen a nnulatus
- lichen an nulatus
- lichen ann ulatus
- lichen annu latus
- lichen annul atus
- lichen annula tus
- lichen annulat us
- lichen annulatu s
Etymology of LICHEN ANNULATUS
The term "lichen annulatus" has its etymology rooted in Latin.
1. Lichen: The word "lichen" comes from the Latin word "lichen", which originally referred to any kind of mossy or lichen-like growth. It was later adopted in the scientific classification system to specifically describe lichens, symbiotic organisms composed of a fungus and a photosynthetic partner (usually algae or cyanobacteria).
2. Annulatus: The word "annulatus" also comes from Latin and means "ringed" or "circular". It is derived from the verb "annulare", which means "to make into a ring" or "to surround". This term is used in the context of "lichen annulatus" to describe the appearance of certain types of lichens that form circular or ring-shaped growth patterns.
