Oral lichen planus: Causes, diagnosis and management

Abstract

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. In this paper we review the clinical and histological features of OLP, process of OLP diagnosis, causes of OLP, management of OLP patients and medical treatment of OLP lesions. Approximately 0.2 per cent OLP patients develop intra-oral carcinoma each year compared with approximately 0.005 per cent Australian adults. Possible mechanisms of increased oral cancer risk in OLP patients are presented. The aims of current OLP therapy are to eliminate mucosal erythema and ulceration, alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of oral cancer. Patient education may improve the outcomes of OLP therapy and further reduce the risk of oral cancer in OLP patients. Although OLP may be diagnosed clinically, appropriate specialist referral is required for: (i) histological diagnosis; (ii) assessment of causative/exacerbating factors, associated diseases and oral cancer risk; (iii) patient education and management; (iv) medical treatment; and (v) long-term review and re-biopsy as required.

Oral Lichen Planus – A Case Report with Current Trends Review of Literature

“…It has been observed that the oral lesions may persist upto 25 years [4] and precipitate during the periods of stress. [13] In the present case it is reported in a 27 year old male patient.…”

Dermatoglyphics and Periodontal Diseases-a Possible Relation for Early Prediction?

“…12 Sugerman et al observed wider atd angles. 13 Mathew et al found an increased frequency of ulnar and radial loops than the arches and whorls in cleft lip with or, without cleft palate patients compared to controls. 12 ImeneNamouchi conducted a study on Tunisian population to analyze eventual differences between men and women and between individuals according to their geographical distribution.…”

The Role of Dental Metal Allergy in Oral Lichen Planus

“…Sometimes, however, the causative allergen cannot be specified. (18) Sometimes the removal of the identified allergen does not result in regression of the lesions. (19) Topical corticosteroids are used to decrease inflammation and alleviate symptoms.…”