Simultaneous Occurrence of Lichen Nitidus and Morphea

Lichen nitidus and morphea are common diseases, but an associated localization of both lesions is rare. Here, we describe the first case of lesions distributed along Blaschko's lines. A 24-year-old Japanese woman was referred to our clinic for evaluation of band-like plaques of 18-months history on the right lateral side of her abdomen. In addition, multiple milky-white papules were seen within the plaques. Histopathological examination showed there was sclerosis in the lower half of the dermis and well-circumscribed, dense, papillary dermal lymphohistiocytic aggregations showing a so-called "claw clutching a ball." Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the morphea and lichen nitidus had similar characteristics. We speculated that unique immunologic events led to the development of lichen nitidus and morphea in our patient.