Lichen planus ------- is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes. It can appear as an itchy rash, violaceous patches, or painful sores in the mouth. Symptoms ---- Itchy, shiny, red and purple bumps that are slightly raised Patches of raised, sometimes rough, skin Mouth sores Fingernail splitting Hair loss Thicker scaly patches around the ankles Causes ------ The cause of lichen planus is usually not known Possible causes include: Hepatitis C Certain medicines Reactions to metal fillings in your teeth An autoimmune reaction Treatment for this dermatology condition is available at Rakesh Reddy's Skin Clinic in Sanjay Nagar and for patients from around Hebbal, RT Nagar, Tata nagar, Mathikere, Yelahanka and Sahakar Nagar