Lichen ruber mucosae with esophageal involvement

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Dermatology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Oral lichen ruber planus (Irp) is an inflammatory condition that can affect various parts of the body.
• Esophageal involvement in Irp is rare but can lead to significant complications such as dysphagia and stenosis.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common cause of esophageal issues, but other inflammatory conditions should also be considered.

Observation:

• A 50-year-old woman presented with prolonged dysphagia.
• Endoscopic examination revealed an inflammatory lesion in the mid-esophagus causing stenosis.
• The distal esophagus showed changes consistent with endobrachyesophagus.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with oral lichen ruber planus (Irp) and esophageal stenosis.
• Irp was considered a potential cause of the mid-esophageal stenosis, in addition to possible GERD.
• Treatment with etretinate (Tigason) led to the resolution of mucosal lesions.
• Endoscopic dilatation successfully treated the esophageal stenosis.

Implications:

• This case highlights that oral lichen ruber planus can manifest with esophageal complications, including stenosis and dysphagia.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, such as etretinate and endoscopic dilatation, can effectively manage these complications.
• Further research may be warranted to understand the precise mechanisms linking Irp to esophageal inflammation and stenosis.