The Implication of Candida Infection in Oral Lichen Planus Lesions

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine if superimposed infection with Candida species in oral lichen planus exacerbates the clinical symptoms and lesions. Methodology:We conducted a retrospective study on the medical charts of oral lichen planus (OLP) patients diagnosed by clinical and histopathological criteria. A baseline demographic, anamnestic, clinical data, results of the oral candida investigations were analyzed and recorded for all patients. Results:From a total number of 203 OLP patients, oral candidiasis was diagnosed in 75 (36.94%) cases. There was no statistical significance between the clinical forms of lichen planus and the presence of Candida infection. Of all encountered Candida species, Candida albicans was most commonly detected, followed by Candida krusei, Candida lusitaniae, and Candida tropicalis. Conclusion:Although our study is limited regarding the sample size and no statistically significant difference has been found between clinical features of OLP and oral candidiasis, a routine screening of OLP patients for oral candidiasis and a preventive antifungal strategy in the OLP treatment schedule is needed.