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Updated: Sep 13, 2025

Simultaneous Laryngopharyngeal and Conventional Esophageal pH Monitoring
Published on: December 14, 2020
Esophageal lichen planus: A prospective interdisciplinary, monocentric cohort study
Rebecca Diehl1, Annette Schmitt-Graeff2, Dimitra Kiritsi1,3
1Department of Dermatology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
Esophageal lichen planus (ELP) is often overlooked. This study identified ELP in 21 patients, highlighting dysphagia as a key symptom and recommending endoscopic evaluation for suspected cases.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Dermatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Lichen planus (LP) is an inflammatory condition affecting various tissues.
- Esophageal involvement in LP (ELP) is an underrecognized manifestation.
- Early diagnosis of ELP is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and clinical features of symptomatic esophageal lichen planus (ELP).
- To establish diagnostic criteria for ELP.
- To assess the association between LP and esophageal symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study of 562 patients screened for ELP using dysphagia as a primary criterion.
- Inclusion of patients from Dermatology and Gastroenterology departments.
- Diagnosis confirmed via endoscopic, histopathological, and immunofluorescence findings.
Main Results:
- 21 out of 77 patients with dysphagia were diagnosed with ELP.
- ELP patients showed higher rates of dysphagia, food bolus obstruction, and retrosternal pain.
- Multilocular LP presentation was a strong indicator of esophageal involvement; two ELP patients developed esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
Conclusions:
- Recognizing ELP is important, especially in patients with esophageal symptoms.
- Comprehensive endoscopic and dermatological evaluations are recommended for suspected ELP.
- Prompt diagnosis and management can potentially improve outcomes and detect associated malignancies.
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