Syed Muhammad Shamim, Kishwar Sultana, Fareeda Islam, Ahmed S I.
Olive oil: an effective emollient for Lichen Simplex Chronicus.
J Pak Assoc Derma Jan ;14(3):118-22.

Background: Olive belongs to the family of Oleacae. Olive oil is being used increasingly in different systemic diseases. In dermatology, it is primarily used as a vehicle but it can have many other potential uses. Objectives: We tested the efficacy of topical olive oil in the treatment of lichen simplex chronicus. Patients and methods: Forty male and female patients suffering from lichen simplex chronicus affecting nape of the neck, arms, back of the legs and ankle. Patients were followed up weekly for four weeks. Pruritus and dryness were scored on a 4-grade scale i.e. none, slight, moderate and severe at baseline and on each follow up visit. Results: Significant improvement in pruritus and dryness was noticed in all age groups and both sexes. Conclusions: Olive oil is effective in controlling dryness and pruritus in lichen simplex chronicus.

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