Actinic lichen planus treated with an individualised homoeopathic approach: A case report

Introduction: Lichen planus (LP) is an idiopathic chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin and mucous membranes. Actinic lichen planus is a rare photosensitive variant that affects sun-exposed areas and may significantly impair quality of life due to its disfiguring nature. Conventional management primarily involves topical or systemic corticosteroids, which are associated with adverse effects and frequent relapses. Scientific literature on homoeopathic management of actinic LP remains limited. Case summary: A 61-year-old woman presented with pruritic, purple-black plaques over the forehead and was clinically diagnosed with actinic LP persisting for the last five months. Causticum in LM potency was prescribed after a detailed case taking and repertorisation. Follow-up was done at regular intervals of about 2 weeks. A gradual and sustained improvement was observed in cutaneous lesions, pruritus, and associated complaints after initiation of homoeopathic treatment. Complete clinical remission was achieved within approximately one year, as evidenced by serial photographic documentation. The causal relationship between the homoeopathic intervention and clinical outcome was evaluated using the Modified Naranjo Criteria for Homeopathy (MONARCH). A score of +9 suggested that the observed clinical improvement was likely attributable to the homoeopathic treatment. This case highlights the potential role of individualised homoeopathic treatment in the management of actinic LP. However, further systematic, adequately powered, controlled clinical studies are warranted to confirm these findings.