Overview
Onchocercal lichenification is a skin condition characterized by thickening and hardening of the skin, often appearing as a result of chronic scratching or irritation, particularly in the context of onchocerciasis. It presents as lichenification, a common dermatological finding.Diagnosis
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of thickened, leathery skin 1.
A history of chronic pruritus or irritation is often present 1.
Microscopic examination of skin snips can confirm the presence of Onchocerca volvulus* if onchocerciasis is suspected 1.Management
Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause of irritation and managing the lichenification itself.
Topical corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and itching 1.
Emollients are important for skin hydration and barrier repair 1.
Needling techniques (RF-needling, meso-needling, micro-needling) and ablative fractional lasers are being investigated for treating lichenification 1.Key Recommendations
Consider needling techniques or ablative fractional lasers for the management of onchocercal lichenification 1. (Evidence: Weak)
Topical corticosteroids and emollients are recommended for symptomatic relief and skin barrier support 1. (Evidence: Weak)References
1 Nobari NN, Tabavar A, Sadeghi S, Dehghani A, Kalantari Y, Ghassemi M et al.. A systematic review of the comparison between needling (RF-needling, meso-needling, and micro-needling) and ablative fractional lasers (CO. Lasers in medical science 2023. link