Oral lichen planus (OLP): clinical and complementary diagnosis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Oral Medicine
• Epithelial Disorders
• Oral Mucosal Diseases

Background:

• Lichen planus is a common inflammatory condition affecting stratified squamous epithelium.
• Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) primarily impacts middle-aged women, presenting with characteristic oral lesions.
• OLP may be linked to patient medications or dental materials, complicating diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the etiopathogenesis of Oral Lichen Planus.
• To outline the clinical and laboratory diagnostic methods for OLP.
• To discuss potential complications, including malignant transformation, of OLP.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific articles on Oral Lichen Planus.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria, including clinical presentation and histopathology.
• Examination of treatment modalities and disease complications.

Main Results:

• Clinical diagnosis requires classical oral and skin lesions.
• Histopathology reveals sawtooth rete ridges and Civatte bodies, aiding in excluding dysplasia.
• Topical corticosteroids are primary treatments, with new therapies showing promise.

Conclusions:

• Oral Lichen Planus diagnosis relies on characteristic clinical and histopathological findings.
• Effective management involves anti-inflammatory agents, particularly topical corticosteroids.
• The potential for malignant transformation in OLP remains a subject of ongoing research and debate.