Lichen simplex (neurodermatitis) is typically described as:

• A. Contagious infection
• B. Neurodermatitis common in adults with sharply demarcated plaques
• C. Systemic autoimmune disease
• D. Characterized by Wickham's striae

Answer: (B)

Lichen simplex chronicus (neurodermatitis) is driven by an itch-scratch cycle that thickens and hardens the skin, producing localized, clearly defined plaques. It is not contagious and does not involve a systemic autoimmune process. In adults, the classic description is sharply demarcated, thickened plaques resulting from chronic scratching, often on accessible areas such as the neck, scalp, wrists, ankles, or genital region, with itching being a prominent feature. Wickham's striae are a hallmark of lichen planus, not this condition, so they are not seen here. The essence is a localized, chronically scratched patch that becomes thickened and well defined.