Lichen Planus is an inflammatory skin disease that has been reported to be associated with inflammatory diseases like Inflammatory Bowel Disease or with medication use such as sulfasalazine. We report a case of lichen planus in a 62-year-old patient with ulcerative colitis receiving sulfasalazine. Within three years of treatment, the patient developed an erythematous rash on her forehead and wrists, which gradually worsened and spread to her arms, forearms, neck, and upper back. Lichen planus was suspected and later confirmed through histopathological examination. Consequently, sulfasalazine was discontinued, leading to partial resolution of the skin lesions. Our case highlights the importance of a thorough patient interview, as the timeline of skin lesions in relation to medication use and disease activity.
Keywords: Lichen planus; drug-effect; extra-intestinal manifestation; sulfasalazine; ulcerative colitis.
Lichen planus is a skin condition linked to medications like sulfasalazine. We describe a case where a 62-year-old woman developed lichen planus after few years of using sulfasalazine as treatment for ulcerative colitis. Her symptoms started with a rash on her forehead and wrists, spreading to other areas. Stopping sulfasalazine partially improved her skin. This case underlines the need to watch for skin reactions during medication use and to switch for alternative treatments if they occur.