Oral lichen planus after COVID-19, a case report

Area of Science:

• Oral Medicine
• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has led to widespread global health concerns.
• Oral and dermatological manifestations of COVID-19 are increasingly reported.
• This study focuses on a unique oral presentation following COVID-19 infection.

Observation:

• A patient developed oral lichen planus affecting the buccal mucosa and tongue.
• Lesions appeared one month post-COVID-19 infection.
• Clinical and histopathological examinations confirmed oral lichen planus.

Findings:

• Viruses are known triggers for oral lichen planus, but COVID-19 association is rare.
• Immunological and psychological shifts from COVID-19 may predispose individuals to lichen planus.
• This case suggests a potential link between COVID-19 and oral lichen planus.

Implications:

• Healthcare practitioners should be vigilant for increased oral lichen planus incidence during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Consideration of COVID-19 as a potential trigger for oral lichen planus is warranted.
• Appropriate therapeutic and protective measures against COVID-19 infection are crucial.