Oral Lichen Planus: An Update on Diagnosis and Management

Area of Science:

• Oral medicine
• Dermatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic T-cell mediated inflammatory condition affecting the epithelium.
• It presents with diverse clinical forms and symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain.
• The exact antigen triggering the immune response remains unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and management of OLP.
• To highlight the importance of long-term patient follow-up.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of OLP pathogenesis, clinical features, and treatment options.
• Analysis of OLP management guidelines and reported outcomes.

Main Results:

• OLP pathogenesis involves T-cell mediated inflammation against unknown antigens.
• Clinical manifestations are polymorphous, including reticular, erosive, and atrophic forms.
• Topical corticosteroids are first-line treatment; various other agents are used for refractory cases.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of OLP requires a stepwise approach based on clinical presentation and symptom severity.
• Regular monitoring is crucial to detect malignant transformation to squamous cell carcinoma, observed in about 1% of patients.