What is the significance of erosive lichen planus?

Posted on by Muna Meyer

What is the significance of erosive lichen planus?

Erosive lichen planus is an uncommon, chronic inflammatory condition mainly affecting the mucosal surfaces of the mouth and genitalia. It is thought to be an autoimmune disorder with T cell–mediated damage to basal keratinocytes.

How is erosive lichen planus diagnosed?

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  1. Biopsy. A small tissue sample is taken from one or more lesions in your mouth and examined under a microscope to look for indications of oral lichen planus.
  2. Cultures. A sample of cells is taken from your mouth using a cotton swab.
  3. Blood tests.

What does erosive lichen planus look like?

Oral lichen planus may appear as white, lacy patches; red, swollen tissues; or open sores. These lesions may cause burning, pain or other discomfort.

How long does erosive lichen planus last?

The lesions of cutaneous lichen planus typically resolve within 1-2 years, whereas the reticular forms of oral lichen planus have a mean duration of 5 years and erosive lesions of oral lichen planus are long-lasting and persist for up to 15-20 years or longer.

Is erosive lichen planus cancerous?

Background: Oral lichen planus (OLP) and oral lichenoid lesions (OLL) are considered potentially malignant disorders with a cancer incidence of around 1% of cases, although this estimation is controversial.

Is erosive lichen planus an autoimmune disease?

Erosive lichen planus (ELP) is a variant of lichen planus which involves chronic and painful ulceration of the skin and mucosal surfaces. ELP is thought to be the result of autoimmune damage of the basal cell layer, which is mediated by activated CD8 T lymphocytes.

What is the difference between lichen planus and erosive lichen planus?

Is lichen planus a serious disease?

Lichen planus is not a dangerous disease, and it usually goes away on its own. However, in some people, it may come back.

How common is erosive Oral Lichen Planus?

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic mucocutaneous disorder of stratified squamous epithelium of uncertain etiology that affects oral and genital mucous membranes, skin, nails, and scalp. LP is estimated to affect 0.5% to 2.0% of the general population.