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Scrotal lichen simplex chronicus triggered by an insect bite: a case report with neuroimmune pathophysiological insights
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- Published: October 28, 2026
Scrotal lichen simplex chronicus triggered by an insect bite: a case report with neuroimmune pathophysiological insights
Aimane Zaim 1 
, Hanane Baybay 2 , Sofia El Haitamy 2 , Laila Chbani 2, Fatima Zahrae-Mernissi 1
1 Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, University Hospital Hassan II, Fez, Morocco; 2 Department of Dermatology, Hassan II University Hospital, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
Aimane Zaim, Hanane Baybay, Sofia El Haitamy, Laila Chbani, Fatima Zahrae-Mernissi
La información completa de afiliaciones y autor de correspondencia está disponible en la versión original en PDF.
*Correspondence: Aimane Zaim. Email: aimane.zaim@usmba.ac.ma
Abstract
Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) is a chronic pruritic disorder characterized by localized lichenification resulting from a persistent itch-scratch cycle. We report a 73-year-old male farmer with type 2 diabetes mellitus who presented with a 30-year history of severe scrotal pruritus. Symptoms began approximately 2 months after a documented insect bite in the scrotal region. Examination revealed a linear hypertrophic plaque with central ulceration on lichenified, hyperpigmented skin. Dermoscopy showed polymorphic vessels, ulceration, red globules, and structureless white areas. Histopathology confirmed LSC. Treatment with high-potency topical corticosteroids, local anesthetic cream, and emollients resulted in partial improvement. Insect bites may initiate persistent itch through acute inflammation and activation of cutaneous pruriceptors, potentially leading to neuroimmune dysregulation in predisposed individuals. This case highlights a possible neuroimmune link between an insect bite and chronic scrotal pruritus.
Keywords: Lichen simplex chronicus. Neurodermatitis. Scrotal pruritus. Insect bite. Neuroimmune dysregulation. Itch-scratch cycle.
