A Psychosomatic Link Observed in Lichen Planus Case Treated With Homeopathy

Mrs. S.K. (Patient ID: 54604), a 43-year-old female, visited the Life Force Pimpri branch in May 2024 seeking treatment for a recurrence of lichen planus, which had relapsed in January 2024. She had previously suffered from the same condition between 2014 and 2015, during which she had responded well to homeopathic treatment, achieving about 90% improvement, with the condition remaining in remission for nearly 9 years. The patient presented with purplish, flat lesions over bilateral forearms and lower legs, accompanied by itching and occasional mild burning, without any discharge or bleeding. Hyperpigmentation was noted in all affected areas. Itching was aggravated by hot showers and relieved by cold showers and moisturizing the skin. The lesions were gradually spreading.

Other Medical History:
She has been diagnosed with hypothyroidism since 2019 and is on Thyronorm 50 mcg daily.

Personal History:

A vegetarian with a sweet tooth and a fondness for spicy food, she had an aversion to milk and found it hard to tolerate heat. Her physical health, otherwise, was fairly stable—normal sleep, digestion, and menstrual health.

Mental generals:
Mrs. S.K. is an introverted individual who tends to suppress emotions, especially in situations involving interpersonal conflicts, particularly with her mother-in-law. She finds it difficult to express her feelings and prefers to cry in solitude due to trust issues. Despite this, she shares a harmonious marital relationship and a supportive upbringing.

Family and Social Background: Homemaker by choice, with a graduate degree. Married for 25 years. Her husband is a civil engineer.
The son is a computer engineer; the daughter is a first-year BAMS student.

Clinical Assessment & Treatment:
The case was thoroughly evaluated by Dr. Rajesh Shah, and individualized homeopathic treatment was initiated. Based on lab reports, vitamin B12 and vitamin D3 supplements were also prescribed.

Follow-up Progress:

1st Follow-up (7th July 2024): Her condition was stable; no significant change was reported.

2nd Follow-up (23rd August 2024): The increase in itching and burning was noted; her case was reviewed, and revised medicines were prescribed.

3rd Follow-up (19th October 2024): Notable 40–50% improvement was seen;the reduced lesions, itching, and burning.

4th Follow-up (4th December 2024): Her condition remained stable,with occasional itching. No new lesions observed.

5th Follow-up (29th January 2025): 60–70% improvement in older lesions. No new lesions noted.

6th (Last) Follow-up (20th March 2025): 80–90% overall improvement reported. Only one lesion on the right leg remained, showing gradual improvement.
All other lesions significantly reduced, with only residual hyperpigmentation. No burning, and occasional itching limited to the single remaining lesion.

Conclusion-

Mrs. S.K.’s case reflects the effectiveness of individualized homeopathic treatment in managing a chronic, relapsing dermatological condition such as lichen planus, even after a long remission period. Her progress has been steady and consistent, with significant improvement observed both in clinical symptoms and overall quality of life. The case also underscores the importance of addressing emotional and psychological stressors as contributory factors in autoimmune skin conditions.

- Case study Written by Dr. Mitali Singh,  Associate doctor to Dr. Rajesh Shah, MD (Hom)