[Oral lichen planus]

Oral lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory disease of adult onset. The etiopathology is based on a reaction against immunologically altered keratinocytes. There are variable forms of this condition, which at times make recognition difficult. Remissions are frequent. Associated oral carcinoma subsequent to the initial diagnosis of oral lichen planus is observed. Therefore all patients with oral lichen planus should be carefully evaluated and followed periodically.