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Epithelial differentiation patterns in buccal mucosa affected by lichen planus
Virchows Archiv. B, Cell Pathology
|November 24, 1976
Summary
Buccal lichen planus reticularis shows altered epithelial differentiation. Distinct Wickham's striae indicate a more severe deviation than faint striae, affecting cytoplasmic organelles.
Area of Science:
- Oral Pathology
- Epithelial Biology
- Electron Microscopy
Background:
- Buccal lichen planus reticularis is a common oral mucosal condition.
- Understanding epithelial changes is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
- Wickham's striae are characteristic clinical features.
Purpose of the Study:
- To perform histometric and stereologic analysis of buccal mucosa epithelium in lichen planus reticularis.
- To compare epithelial differentiation in distinct versus faint Wickham's striae.
- To identify specific ultrastructural differences in affected epithelium.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy of 9 buccal mucosa biopsies with lichen planus reticularis.
- Histometric and stereologic analysis using point counting procedures.
- Quantitative assessment of cytoplasmic organelles in 5 epithelial strata.
Main Results:
- Epithelium in lichen planus reticularis exhibits atrophy and altered differentiation compared to normal buccal epithelium.
- Significant differences in volume densities of glycogen, membrane coating granules, keratohyalin granules, cytoplasmic filaments, and ground substance were observed between faint and distinct striae.
- Distinct striae showed a more drastic deviation in epithelial differentiation.
Conclusions:
- Clinical presentation of buccal lichen planus reticularis correlates with distinct stages of epithelial differentiation deviation.
- Faint and distinct Wickham's striae represent different degrees of epithelial alteration.
- Ultrastructural analysis provides insights into the pathogenesis of oral lichen planus reticularis.