Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) is a pruritic skin condition in which an itching sensation triggers a persistent itch-scratch cycle, according to a recent open-access review published in Drugs & Therapy Perspectives.
The review explains that the itch driving LSC can arise from psychological, environmental, dermatological or systemic origins. Repeated scratching disrupts the skin barrier, leading to lichenification and chronic inflammation, and ultimately producing the characteristic lichenified plaque that defines the condition.
Beyond the physical burden, LSC is associated with reduced quality of life and psychiatric comorbidities such as depression and anxiety, which can further exacerbate the disease.
According to the review, first-line treatment is topical corticosteroids. When these are ineffective, other topical options are available, including calcineurin inhibitors and topical analgesics.
Systemic treatments, such as antidepressants, may also be considered for some patients, the review notes.
In addition to pharmacological approaches, the review highlights non-pharmacological, procedural therapies. Carbon dioxide laser therapy and focused ultrasound have recently shown promise in the treatment of pruritus associated with LSC.
The overall message of the review is that clinicians should consider both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches when managing pruritus in LSC, given the chronic nature of the itch-scratch cycle and its impact on patients.
The article was published on 10 July 2026 as part of the journal’s Practical Issues and Updates series and is available open access.
Subject of Research: Management of pruritus in lichen simplex chronicus with pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches
Article Title: Consider both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to managing pruritus in lichen simplex chronicus
Article References: McGuigan, A. (2026). Consider both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to managing pruritus in lichen simplex chronicus. Drugs & Therapy Perspectives. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40267-026-01264-7
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1007/s40267-026-01264-7
Keywords: lichen simplex chronicus, pruritus, itch-scratch cycle, topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, antidepressants, carbon dioxide laser therapy, focused ultrasound, dermatology, skin barrier, Consider, both
News Source: Ophelia Keating. (October 29, 2026). Itch-scratch cycle in lichen simplex chronicus calls for combined drug and non-drug treatment strategies. Scienmag.
