Reduction of micronuclei in oral lichen planus supplemented with beta-carotene

An elevated frequency of micronucleated exfoliated cells (MEC) in atrophic and erosive oral lichen planus (OLP) has been reported. To evaluate the effects of supplemental beta-carotene (BC) on MEC frequency in OLP lesions, we performed an open trial in 20 patients with atrophic and/or erosive OLP. Each patient received 15 mg of BC four times daily for 3 months. The frequency of MEC in both lesions and adjacent normal mucosa in each patient was evaluated and compared before and after supplementation. Serum levels of BC and retinol were also determined. After BC supplementation, all patients had higher levels of serum BC and retinol. The MEC frequency in OLP lesions was significantly reduced (P < 0.01). No significant changes were seen in the MEC frequency in adjacent normal mucosa. BC supplementation thus significantly reduces MEC frequency in atrophic and erosive OLP.