cutaneous lichen amyloidosis

Definition of cutaneous lichen amyloidosis

cutaneous lichen amyloidosis (kyoo-TAY-nee-us LY-ken A-muh-loy-DOH-sis): A chronic condition marked by the presence of itchy, reddish-brown, scaly, raised bumps on the skin. Over time, the bumps can form thick, hard patches on the skin. They usually occur on the shins but can also occur on the thighs, feet, neck, back, and lower part of the arm. These bumps are a result of a buildup of abnormal proteins in the skin. The cause of cutaneous lichen amyloidosis is usually not known. Sometimes it is found in people with a rare genetic condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A (MEN2A) and in people with mutations (changes) in certain genes. Cutaneous lichen amyloidosis most often occurs in middle adulthood and is more common in men and in people with darker skin.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms