Case series of an alternative therapy for generalised lichen planus: Four case studies

Lichen planus (LP) is an idiopathic, cell-mediated immune disorder, accompanied by itching. Spontaneous remission occurs. Topical and systemic therapies are utilised. Four cases of generalized LP with and without mucosal involvement treated homeopathically are presented. Case 1: A 48-year-old female presented with a 7-month history of generalized itchy rash, which had been diagnosed as LP, treated unsuccessfully with topical steroids and removal of dental fillings. Examination revealed violaceous papules on upper and lower limbs, oral mucosal lesions and an irregular, erythematous, blanching, macular rash on the chest. She received homeopathic Ignatia amara at medication dilution factor (MK) potency, weekly dose and went into remission at 3 months. Patient remains in remission. Case 2: A 65-year-old female presented with a 27-year history of generalized, LP, which had been unresponsive to topical steroids. Examination showed generalized, violaceous papules, with no mucosal involvement. She received homeopathic Aurum metallicum, MK potency, weekly, and went into remission. She relapsed at 8 months after onset of therapy, following a very stressful incident, but gained remission again with Aurum metallicum after 1 month of therapy. She remains in remission. Case 3: A 38-year-old male presented with a 21-year history of generalized LP. Medical history was significant for hepatitis B and asthma. Topical steroid therapy was only partially successful. Examination revealed generalized, violaceous papules, with oral and genital involvement. He received homeopathic Lycopodium at MK potency, weekly, and remitted by 2 months. He remains in remission. Case 4: A 41-year-old male presented with a 12-year history of generalized hypertrophic LP, which had responded partially to topical steroids and ultraviolet A therapy. Medical history was significant for reduced sense of smell. Examination revealed generalized, violaceous, hypertrophic papules and nodules. He received homeopathic Carcinosinum at MK potency and remitted at 6-months. In its long-standing, generalized form, with mucosal involvement, LP may respond to individualized homeopathy. More research may clarify homeopathy's place in LP therapy.