Vitamin C in Oral Lichen Planus: Pathobiological Rationale and Therapeutic Potential

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Nutritional Science
• Dermatology

Background:

• Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the oral mucosa.
• It involves oxidative stress, epithelial damage, and T-cell inflammation, posing therapeutic challenges.
• Current treatments for OLP often have limitations in disease control and healing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biological functions of vitamin C (VitC) related to OLP.
• To assess VitC's potential as an additional treatment for OLP.
• To summarize evidence on VitC's mechanisms and therapeutic effects in OLP.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted.
• Studies on VitC's molecular mechanisms in oxidative stress, epithelial integrity, and immune regulation were identified.
• Clinical and experimental data on VitC's therapeutic outcomes in OLP were evaluated.

Main Results:

• VitC demonstrates antioxidant properties, scavenging reactive oxygen species.
• It aids in stabilizing epithelial structures and regulating apoptosis.
• Preliminary data suggest VitC benefits oxidative balance, inflammation, and tissue repair in OLP.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin C is biologically plausible and safe as an adjunctive therapy for OLP.
• It targets multiple pathobiological aspects of OLP.
• Further rigorous clinical trials are necessary to determine optimal VitC dosage, delivery, and long-term efficacy.