School Teacher Experience with Lichen Planus Pigmentosus
Mrs. G.S., a 62-year-old school teacher, consulted us online at the Life Force Homeopathy Thane branch on 5th July 2023. She presented with complaints of lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP) affecting the left side of her forehead. The condition was first noticed in February 2023 as a small hyperpigmented patch within the hairline, which gradually spread across the left forehead. Over time, the patch became darker and more noticeable, prompting her to seek treatment. She also reported dryness of the affected skin and itching aggravated by sun exposure. The patient mentioned that her skin was generally sensitive and easily irritated by sunlight and soaps. Her chief concern was the progressive spread and discoloration, which was affecting her appearance and confidence.
Physical Generals:
Her appetite was good, and she followed a vegetarian diet. She had a marked craving for sweets and had been chewing tobacco for the past 15 years, a habit she found difficult to quit. Her thirst was low, consuming around 1 liter of water per day, and she experienced profuse perspiration, especially on the face and scalp. Thermally, she was ambithermal, meaning she was comfortable in both hot and cold climates. She had attained menopause five years ago and maintained an average physique.
Mental generals:
Emotionally, Mrs. G.S. was a strong and competitive woman with a desire to excel in every field. As a teacher, she took great pride in her work and maintained a high sense of responsibility. She described herself as perfectionistic and ambitious, often setting high standards for herself. However, she admitted to experiencing mental stress due to her husband’s partial paralysis of one leg, which had placed additional emotional and practical burdens on her. Despite these challenges, she continued to remain composed and optimistic.
Past and Family History:
Her past medical history revealed an episode of malaria in 1993, from which she had completely recovered. There were no other significant past illnesses. Her family history was notable for diabetes mellitus in her father and hypertension in her mother, suggesting a genetic tendency toward metabolic conditions.
After a detailed case analysis, Dr. Rajesh Shah prescribed individualized, research-based homeopathic medicines specific to her physical symptoms, personality traits, and stress factors.
Follow-ups:
28th January 2025 (First Follow-up): The patient reported that the lesion had stopped spreading. There was a noticeable reduction in itching and dryness, and the patch appeared slightly lighter.
29th April 2025: The forehead lesion had become 50% lighter compared to the beginning of treatment. The itching and dryness had completely disappeared, and there was no further spread.
27th June 2025: Continued progress was observed. The LPP patch showed 60–65% improvement, with the color lightening further. The patient expressed satisfaction with the visible changes.
21st August 2025: The improvement continued, with the lesion now 70% better and no signs of recurrence. However, the patient reported a new complaint of itching and vesicular eruptions on the fingers of both hands, which were aggravated after using soap and detergents. At times, a watery discharge was present. The presentation was suggestive of atopic dermatitis, for which treatment was continued accordingly.
Conclusion:
This case demonstrates how individualized homeopathic treatment can bring significant and sustained improvement in a chronic and pigmentary condition like lichen planus pigmentosus. With careful case-taking and personalized prescription, not only did the pigmentation reduce by more than 70%, but the patient also experienced overall enhancement in her skin health, emotional well-being, and confidence.
- Case study written by Dr Jebitha Nadar, an associate to Dr. Rajesh Shah, MD (Hom)