Lichen planus.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Immunology
• Oncology

Background:

• Lichen planus is an inflammatory mucocutaneous disease characterized by pruritic, violaceous papules and plaques.
• It can affect the skin, oral mucosa, genital mucosa, scalp, and nails, with potential for disfigurement and debilitation.
• Oral lichen planus carries a risk of malignant transformation into squamous cell carcinoma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the key features, potential causes, and management strategies for lichen planus.
• To highlight the association between oral lichen planus and squamous cell carcinoma.
• To outline treatment approaches based on disease localization and severity.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on lichen planus.
• Analysis of etiological factors including medications and viral infections.
• Description of clinical presentation and histopathological findings.
• Summary of current therapeutic interventions.

Main Results:

• Lichen planus presents with characteristic skin and mucosal lesions, often associated with severe pruritus.
• Etiology can be idiopathic, medication-induced (e.g., NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors), or linked to Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection.
• Treatment varies from potent topical steroids for localized disease to systemic steroids for generalized or severe cases.

Conclusions:

• Lichen planus is a complex inflammatory condition with diverse clinical manifestations and potential complications.
• Understanding its varied etiology is crucial for effective management and patient counseling.
• Prompt and appropriate treatment, guided by disease severity and location, is essential to manage symptoms and prevent long-term sequelae.