# Dermoscopy of Lichen Planus Follicularis Tumidus: A Case Report With Pattern Analysis and Literature Review

## TL;DR

This case report describes a unique dermoscopic pattern in a rare skin condition called lichen planus follicularis tumidus, which can help distinguish it from similar conditions.

## Contribution

A novel dermoscopic pattern resembling a 'follicular galaxy' is identified for lichen planus follicularis tumidus.

## Key findings

- The dermoscopic pattern includes comedo-like and milia-like structures with white halos and rosettes on a pink-violaceous background.
- This pattern helps differentiate LPFT from conditions like discoid lupus erythematosus and follicular mucinosis.
- The report includes a literature review on existing dermoscopic findings for LPFT.

## Abstract

Lichen planus follicularis tumidus (LPFT) is a rare variant of lichen planus presenting as erythematous to violaceous plaques with significant follicular involvement, most commonly in the retroauricular area. We report a case demonstrating a novel dermoscopic pattern reminiscent of a follicular galaxy, composed of variably sized comedo‐like and milia‐like structures with scaling, white halos, and rosettes on a pink‐violaceous background. This distinctive pattern may help distinguish LPFT from mimics, such as comedonal discoid lupus erythematosus, milia en plaque, and follicular mucinosis. Additionally, a review of existing literature on LPFT dermoscopy is included.

Lichen planus follicularis tumidus (LPFT) is a rare variant of lichen planus with characteristic follicular involvement. A newly described dermoscopic pattern, consisting of variably sized comedo‐like and milia‐like structures with white halos, rosettes, and a pink‐violaceous background, serves as a distinctive clue aiding in the differentiation of LPFT from its clinical mimickers.