Demonstration of T-cell subsets in oral lichen planus

The distribution of "T" cell subsets (T4 & T8) in 10 lesions of oral lichen planus was investigated using an immuno-peroxidase technique. Most of the infiltrating cells consisted of a mixture of T4 (helper/inducer) and T8 (suppressor/cytotoxic) cells, presented in the stroma with varied intensity in their distribution. The present study proved that emigration of lymphocytes, through subepithelial vessels, was not selective for the major subsets of T-cells. Subsequent migration of T8 toward the epithelium was predominant. The present study also support the view that T8 may have a role in the local destruction of the basement membrane. The immuno-regulatory status between T4 & T8 may be responsible for the different clinical forms of lichen-planus.