High prevalence of glucose metabolism disturbance in patients with lichen planus

Diabetes mellitus and oral lichen planus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To undertake a meta-analysis of the association of Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) with diabetes, two diseases with an important impact on public health and the economy, but the evidence of which about their association is inconsistent.

METHODS

Relevant studies were localized by searching MEDLINE, EMBASE, Conference Proceedings, and other databases from inception to October 2020, without restrictions. The reference lists of included studies and of related reviews were also inspected. Global pooled odds ratios were calculated, and predefined subgroup analyses were performed. The heterogeneity between studies and publication bias was assessed and sensitivity analysis was carried out.

RESULTS

Thirty-two studies were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled ORs showed a moderate association between diabetes and OLP [OR: 1.87 (95%CI: 1.57, 2.34)]. The association is limited to studies carried out on adults only [OR: 2.12 (95%CI: 1.75, 2.57)] and is observed in all study designs. Globally, the heterogeneity was low to moderate. Studies carried out in European populations show a stronger association of diabetes and OLP than Asiatic studies [OR: 2.49 (95%CI: 1.87, 3.32) and 1.60 (95%CI: 1.25, 2.03), respectively].

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes and OLP are moderately associated. Systematic diagnosis of diabetes in OLP patients could prove useful.

The relationship between lichen planus and metabolic syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Lichen planus (LP) is an idiopathic, chronic inflammatory disease. Chronic inflammatory diseases can cause metabolic complications. In the literature, data related to the relationship between lichen planus and metabolic syndrome (MS) are limited. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between MS and lichen planus with disease activity.

METHODS

The patients diagnosed with lichen planus at the dermatology outpatient clinic between January 2018 and January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. 98 lichen planus cases, age- and sex-matched 99 controls, 197 cases in total were included in the study.

RESULTS

Of the 98 lichen planus cases included in the study, 60 (61%) were women. The mean age of the patients was 49.3 ± 14.4, and the average disease duration was 33.5 ± 31.4 months. 55 (55%) of the patients in the control group were female, and the mean age of the control group was 50 ± 13.2. The body mass index of LP cases was 29.5 ± 5.8, in the control group was 25.8 ± 3.7. Metabolic syndrome was found in 47 (48%) of 98 cases with lichen planus and 32.3% in the control group. MS in the lichen planus group was significantly higher than the control group (P = .025). Metabolic syndrome was detected in the oral lichen planus at the rate of 60% (12 cases). Although the incidence of MS was more common in the oral lichen planus, it was not statistically significant (P = .29). While no significant relationship was found between oral disease severity and metabolic syndrome (P = .19), a significant correlation was found between cutaneous disease severity and metabolic syndrome (P = .023).

DISCUSSION

The risk of mucosal malignancy that can occur when following LP cases has been known for a long time. According to our results, caution should be taken in terms of metabolic complications in the follow-up of LP cases, especially oral LP cases.

Cardiovascular and Metabolic Risk Assessment in Patients with Lichen Planus: A Tertiary Care Hospital-based Study from Northern India

Background:

The association between lichen planus (LP) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors has been demonstrated in previous reports. However, the evidence of CVD risk factors in Indian patients with LP is limited.

Objective:

To compare CVD risk factors in LP patients and healthy controls.

Methods:

We performed a cross-sectional study on 122 subjects, 61 LP patients, and 61 controls who visited the outpatient clinic of the dermatology department of a tertiary care hospital. Patients with skin diseases known to be associated with CV risk, pregnant, and lactating women were excluded from the study. CVD risk factors were compared between LP cases and controls using anthropometric measures, hemodynamic and metabolic parameters, and inflammatory marker (ESR).

Results:

The proportion of metabolic syndrome (MS) was significantly higher in LP patients than the controls (29.5% vs. 9.8%, odds ratio [OR] 3.83; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.40–10.50; P = 0.006). The proportion of dyslipidemia was also significantly higher in LP patients (70.5% vs. 42.6%; P = 0.002). LP patients had a high proportion of obesity (P = 0.004), hypertension (P = 0.004), impaired fasting glucose (P = 0.025), and raised ESR (P = 0.006) as compared to controls. A multivariate regression model demonstrated that dyslipidemia and obesity were significantly associated with LP even after controlling for confounders such as age, gender, sedentarism, dietary habits, alcohol, and impaired fasting glucose. There was no significant association between the extent of LP and the proportion of MS or dyslipidemia.

Conclusion:

The present study found a significant association of LP with individual CVD risk factors as well as MS.

Epidemiologic and Clinical Differences Between Classic and Hypertrophic Lichen Planus in Nigeria

Introduction. Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory skin disease known to have several clinical variants with attended variable clinical outcomes. Certain complications have been observed in the hypertrophic type, which were not found in association with the classic variant.

Objective: To identify the epidemiologic and clinical differences between the classic and hypertrophic lichen planus and clinical correlates.

Material and Methods. Of 104 participants with lichen planus included in the study, 49 had classic and 55 hypertrophic lichen planus. Demographic and clinical information was obtained. Diagnosis of lichen planus was made clinically and confirmed with histology. The participants were screened for metabolic syndrome, hepatitis B, and C.

Results: Mean age of all patients was 37.20±13.39 years, with no age and gender differences between the participants with classic and hypertrophic lichen planus. Classic lichen planus was more likely to be painful, (8.2% vs 0.0, p=0.046), generalized (95.9% vs 16.4%, p<0.001), involve the oral mucosa (38.8% vs 0.0, p<0.001), the nails (38.8% vs 1.8, p<0.001), present with kobnerisation (55.1% vs 5.5%,<0.001), Wickhiam striae (69.4% vs 16.4%, p<0.001), associated with Hepatitis B vaccination (16.3% vs 3.6%, p<0.028) and anti HCV positivity (16.3% vs 0.0%, p=0.002). Hypertrophic lichen planus was significantly associated with impaired glucose tolerance/diabetes mellitus (16.4% vs 2.0%, p=0.013), dyslipidemia (74.5% vs 40.8%, p=0.001) and saw-tooth histologic appearance compared to classic type.

Conclusion: Hypertrophic lichen planus is more likely to be associated with metabolic complications compared to the classic type. Further studies are needed to loink this difference t chronic inflamation.

Oral lichen planus and associated comorbidities: An approach to holistic health

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory disorder with involvement of skin, oral and genital mucosa, scalp, and nail appendages. Oral lichen planus (OLP) lesions demonstrate a number of morphologic presentations, persist for a long time with rare self-resolution, and undergo malignant changes. OLP has been associated with numerous systemic connotations such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, thyroid diseases, psychosomatic ailments, chronic liver disease, gastrointestinal diseases, and genetic susceptibility to cancer. The oral health physician should be aware of these systemic associations and should work in close connect with the primary healthcare physicians to rule out the predisposing factors for the associated comorbidities. This article aims to highlight the various systemic associations of OLP and warrants the screening of these ailments in OLP for prevention and effective management.

Decreased left atrial strain parameters are associated with prolonged total atrial conduction time in lichen planus

Background

Lichen planus (LP) carries the increased risk of cardiovascular events as it is a chronic inflammatory disease. This study aimed at determining the relationship between total atrial conduction time (TACT), P-wave dispersion, and the left atrium (LA) global strain in the patients with LP.

Methods

Forty people as a control group and 40 patients with LP were included in this study. Patient assessed global longitudinal LA strain by two-dimensional speckle-tracking strain echocardiography.

Results

The global peak systolic LA myocardium strain during the left ventricular systole (LAGLSRs) and the global peak negative LA myocardial strain rate during the early ventricular diastole (LAGLSRe) values were significantly lower in the patients with LP in proportion to the control group according to the strain measurements (1.7 ± 0.07 vs. 1.9 ± 0.1%, p = 0.001; 1.23 ± 0.04 vs. 1.2 ± 0.08 s⁻¹, p = 0.001), respectively. TACT value was found to be significantly longer (102.6 ± 6.3 ms) in the patients with LP than the control group (96.3 ± 5.3 ms, p = 0.001), considering the terms of the artial conduction features.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the subclinical cardiac involvement in LP can determine the prolonged TACT and the impaired left atrial myocardial deformation values.

Metabolic Syndrome and Dyslipidemia among Nigerians with Lichen Planus: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background:

Lichen planus (LP) is an inflammatory skin disease of unknown etiology associated with chronic inflammation, oxidative stress induction, and cardiovascular risk factors.

Objectives:

To document the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS), dyslipidemia, and associated factors in Nigerian patients with LP.

Methods:

A cross-sectional design was made to evaluate 90 patients with LP and 90 controls for MetS and dyslipidemia in two Nigerian teaching hospitals. Diagnosis of LP was made with the aid of histology, and MetS and dyslipidemia were diagnosed using the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria.

Results:

The prevalence of MetS was insignificantly higher in LP than in control (18.9% vs. 13.5, P = 0.311), and dyslipidemia was significantly associated with LP (60% vs. 40%, P = 0.007). LP was associated with higher mean of serum triglyceride (1.21 ± 0.34 vs. 1.08 ± 0.32 mmol/L, P = 0.003), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (3.47 ± 0.89 vs. 3.12 ± 0.77 mmol/L, P = 0.007), and T-cholesterol (5.32 ± 0.88 vs. 4.92 ± 0.86, P = 0.002). LP patients with MetS were older (P < 0.001) and less likely to have Wickham's striae (P = 0.028) compared to those without MetS. Female LP patients were older (P = 0.047), obese (P = 0.043), and had insignificant increase in MetS prevalence compared to the males. Hypertrophic LP was more frequent in patients with dyslipidemia (63.0% vs. 27.8%, P = 0.002), and the family history of diabetes mellitus (DM) was an independent predictor of MetS in LP patients (odds ratio: 4.4, confidence interval: 1.0–19.1, P = 0.047).

Limitation:

Availability of fund is a significant factor that limited the sample size to the minimum required as always in a poor-resource setting.

Conclusions:

LP has an insignificant association with MetS and a significant association with dyslipidemia among Nigerians. The family history of DM is an independent predictor of MetS in LP patients. LP patients should be routinely screened for MetS and its components.

Characterization of oral mucosa lesions and prevalence of yeasts in diabetic patients: A comparative study

BACKGROUND

There is no data available on the prevalence of oral mucosal lesion and candida infection among DM patients which necessitate conducting a local or nation-wide study to assess the oral mucosa lesions and candida prevalent in diabetic patients in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the present study was to characterize oral mucosa lesions, and the prevalence of yeasts in diabetic patients and their association with the risk factors in comparison with a group of non-diabetic controls.

METHODS

Study design: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted assuming 50% of the diabetic patients have oral lesions compared to nondiabetic patients and a power of 80% with 5% level of significance, the minimum required sample size was estimated to be 115 in each group. The buccal swabs were collected to isolate Candida species from the individual patient with a current and former history of diabetes. The laboratory findings were collected and the clinical examination of the oral mucosa was processed at the department of microbiology.

RESULTS

The results inferred a significant presence of oral mucosa alterations in the diabetic group. A majority of the patients were suffering from type 2 diabetes for the past 10 years. C. albicans was the predominant yeast, followed by. C. tropicalis and C. krusei nonalbicans species that were most frequently isolated. Diabetes and smoking habit were the two risk factors for oral mucosa alterations.

CONCLUSIONS

The study found a significant presence of oral mucosa alterations in the diabetic group and the fungal infection tended to be more in the diabetic group with a high incidence of C. albicans. The presence of diabetes and smoking habit were two risk factors identified as significant for oral mucosa alterations. The significant variation in education level in groups indicates that education would help to enhance the prognosis in diabetic patients and healthcare behavior.

Lichen planus and diabetes mellitus: Systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis answering the following questions: (a) "What is the prevalence and risk of oral lichen planus among patients with diabetes mellitus?" and (b) "What is the prevalence and risk of diabetes mellitus among patients with oral lichen planus?".

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A bibliographic search was conducted in PubMed/Medline and Scopus database from 1966 to March 2018, using the following terms: "Lichen planus" AND "Diabetes mellitus" AND "Prevalence" AND "Oral mucosal lesions".

RESULTS

Twenty-two studies were included in this review. Twelve studies assessed the prevalence of diabetes mellitus among patients with lichen planus. The prevalence reported ranges from 1.6% to 37.7% with a relative risk of 2.432. Ten studies assessed the prevalence of lichen planus among patients with diabetes mellitus which showed a prevalence of lichen planus ranging from 0.5% to 6.1% with a relative risk of 1.4.

CONCLUSIONS

Contradictory results were found when analyzing the relationship between lichen planus and diabetes mellitus. Diverse factors should be considered when studying this association for a correct interpretation of results. Diabetes mellitus has high prevalence and morbidity, which is why new case-control studies are needed to further investigate this association.

Oral Lichen Planus: an Overview of Potential Risk Factors, Biomarkers and Treatments

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is an immune-related disorder with unknown exact etiology but established prevalence in females. There are six clinical forms of OLP, ranging from asymptomatic white keratotic lesions to painful erosions and ulcerations. The aim of the present report is to overview pathologic and therapeutic aspects. Peroxidation products, antioxidants, cortisol, and immunoglobulins are potential biomarkers to predict OLP occurrence. The risk of OLP development in patients with hepatitis B and C infection is 2-fold greater than in healthy individuals, while there is no significant relation with diabetes mellitus. Corticosteroids are common drugs to treat OLP and their combination with other agents can be most effective. Folic acid and variants of vitamin B are also potential treatments since they target hematological abnormalities.

Cutaneous Manifestations of Diabetes Mellitus: A Review

Diabetes mellitus is a widespread endocrine disease with severe impact on health systems worldwide. Increased serum glucose causes damage to a wide range of cell types, including endothelial cells, neurons, and renal cells, but also keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Skin disorders can be found in about one third of all people with diabetes and frequently occur before the diagnosis, thus playing an important role in the initial recognition of underlying disease. Noninfectious as well as infectious diseases have been described as dermatologic manifestations of diabetes mellitus. Moreover, diabetic neuropathy and angiopathy may also affect the skin. Pruritus, necrobiosis lipoidica, scleredema adultorum of Buschke, and granuloma annulare are examples of frequent noninfectious skin diseases. Bacterial and fungal skin infections are more frequent in people with diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy and angiopathy are responsible for diabetic foot syndrome and diabetic dermopathy. Furthermore, antidiabetic therapies may provoke dermatologic adverse events. Treatment with insulin may evoke local reactions like lipohypertrophy, lipoatrophy and both instant and delayed type allergy. Erythema multiforme, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, drug eruptions, and photosensitivity have been described as adverse reactions to oral antidiabetics. The identification of lesions may be crucial for the first diagnosis and for proper therapy of diabetes.

Xerostomia and Salivary Gland Hypofunction in Patients with Oral Lichen Planus Before and After Treatment with Topical Corticosteroids

BACKGROUND

Oral lichen planus and mouth dryness are common pathoses, yet not entirely understood. These two conditions may be associated, with a few studies investigating the relationship between mouth dryness and oral lichen planus providing conflicting results. None of the studies have explored the specific impact of disease treatment on mouth dryness.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this observational before and after comparison study was to examine the effect of treatment of oral lichen planus with topical corticosteroids on mouth dryness.

METHODS

Nineteen subjects with oral lichen planus were evaluated for the severity of xerostomia using a xerostomia inventory and a visual analogue scale. Stimulated and unstimulated whole salivary flow rates, unstimulated salivary pH and buffering capacity were also measured. All subjects were evaluated before and after treatment with topical corticosteroids.

RESULTS

All subjects reported xerostomia before treatment with topical corticosteroids, with 79% reporting a significant improvement (P = 0.03) after treatment. Topical corticosteroid treatment was not associated with statistically significant differences in stimulated or unstimulated salivary flow rates, unstimulated salivary pH or buffering capacity.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggest that treatment of oral lichen planus with topical corticosteroids may decrease the severity of dry mouth symptoms.

A genome-wide association scan of biological processes involved in oral lichen planus and oral squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

In this study, the molecular mechanisms underlying malignant transformation from oral lichen planus (OLP) to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) were examined.

METHODS

High-throughput sequencing of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and mRNAs of normal subjects and patients with OLP and OSCC was conducted. RNA-seq reads were mapped, lncRNA and mRNA transcripts were assembled, and expression levels were estimated. The targets of lncRNAs were predicted. Finally, Gene Ontology (GO) and pathway enrichment analyses of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and lncRNA targets were performed.

RESULTS

High-quality sequence data were generated and the mapping ratios for OSCC, normal, and OLP samples were high. In total, 820, 656, and 582 DEGs were obtained from OPL vs. normal, OSCC vs. normal, and OSCC vs. OPL, respectively. A total of 1721 known lncRNAs and 133 predicted lncRNAs and targets were obtained. Keratinization was significantly enriched by OSCC-related DEGs, but not OPL-related DEGs. The pathway of olfactory transduction was enriched by OPL- and OSCC-related DEGs. Defense response to virus and viral carcinogenesis were enriched by DEGs and lncRNA targets in all comparisons. GO term related to the metabolic process was enriched by lncRNA targets in the OPL vs normal comparison, and antigen processing and presentation via MHC class I was significantly enriched by lncRNA targets in the other 2 comparisons.

CONCLUSION

Keratinization and MHC class I antigen processing and presentation were activated during the malignant transformation from OLP to OSCC. Additionally, the olfactory transduction pathway may be important for OSCC.

Oral Symptoms and Mucosal Lesions in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Background: Good glycoregulation at patients with diabetes mellitus is essential for prevention of many complications, including those in oral cavity. Results of numerous studies indicate that xerostomia and neurosensory oral disorders are present in type 2 diabetics. A review of the literature shows contradictory results about prevalence of oral mucosal lesions in diabetics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of xerostomia, neurosensory disorders and mucosal lesions in oral cavity of type 2 diabetics.

Material and Methods: This study involved 90 adults, 60 with type 2 diabetes and 30 healthy subjects, aged 45-65 years. With regard to value of HbA1c level diabetics were divided into two groups: 30 subjects with satisfactory glycoregulation (HbA1c<9%) and 30 subjects with poor glycoregulation (HbA1c≥9%). All patients recruited into the study completed a questionnaire that included their demographic, medical and oral health data. Clinical examination of the oral mucosa was performed by a single examiner.

Results: In relation to the presence of xerostomia and dysgeusia between satisfactory controlled diabetics and healthy subjects a significant difference was observed (p<0.05). Compared with healthy subjects, poor controlled diabetics had significantly higher presence of xerostomia (p<0.001) and neurosensory disoders (p<0.05). A higher prevalence of oral mucosal lesions was found in poor controlled diabetics, but significant difference between groups was not observed (p>0.05). A significant positive correlation was revealed between smoking and glossodynia as well as smoking and glossopyrosis (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Glycemic control level seems to influence the susceptibility of type 2 diabetics to xerostomia and neurosensory disorders. Less clear is whether diabetes are corellated to oral mucosal lesions.

Metabolic Derangements in Lichen Planus - A Case Control Study

INTRODUCTION

An association between psoriasis and metabolic syndrome has been established in previous studies. Lichen Planus (LP) is also a chronic inflammatory disease morphologically related to psoriasis and few studies have shown association of metabolic derangements in LP.

AIM

To study the association of metabolic derangements in LP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective case control study was undertaken for a period of one year. Age and sex matched patients of LP and other non-inflammatory diseases were taken as cases and controls respectively. Data on height, weight, lipid profile and fasting blood glucose levels were collected for all the patients. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 80 patients were recruited, 40 cases and 40 controls. The mean values for all the lipid and glucose parameters were high in cases as compared to controls with significant p-values.

CONCLUSION

In the present study metabolic derangements were seen in patients with LP.

Salivary levels of interleukin-8 in oral lichen planus and diabetic patients: A biochemical study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the salivary levels of interleukin-8 (IL-8) in oral lichen planus (OLP) and diabetes mellitus (DM) patients, and OLP + DM patients in comparison with healthy individuals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 75 patients (30 with OLP, 5 with both OLP and DM, 20 with DM and 20 healthy controls). The salivary levels of IL-8 and fasting blood sugar and 2-h postprandial blood glucose levels were measured in all the subjects. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and post hoc least significant difference tests.

RESULTS

The mean salivary level of IL-8 was the highest in OLP + DM patients, followed by DM, OLP and control groups, respectively. Pair-wise comparisons of the groups revealed significant differences in the salivary levels of IL-8 between OLP and control, DM and control, also OLP + DM patients and control (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The increasing salivary level of IL-8 in the control, OLP, DM, OLP + DM groups, respectively, indicates the role of this inflammatory cytokine in the pathogenesis of OLP and diabetes.

The Relationship between Lichen Planus and Carotid Intima Media Thickness

BACKGROUND

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory disease. Although the association between chronic inflammation and subclinical atherosclerosis has been reported in the literature, the relationship between LP and carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) has not been previously investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between LP and CIMT.

METHODS

One hundred eleven LP patients and 105 controls were enrolled in the study. Then, CIMT examination was performed with an ultrasonography device. Cross-sectional associations of LP with CIMT were analyzed using linear regression models adjusted for related confounders.

RESULTS

No statistical difference was found between LP and the controls except for the female gender, white blood cell, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides (p = 0.046, p = 0.019, p = 0.011 and p = 0.013, respectively). Significant difference was found between the groups in terms of CIMT (0.90 ± 0.2 mm vs. 0.61 ± 0.3 mm, p = 0.001). CIMT was correlated with longevity of the LP, but we did not find LP to be an independent predictor of increased CIMT in logistic regression analysis (r = 0.449, p < 0.001, β = -0.117, p = 0.092; respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study suggested that LP was associated with increased mean CIMT, and furthermore that CIMT was correlated with longevity of LP. However, LP was not an independent predictor of increased CIMT.

The prognostic value of GLUT-1 staining in the detection of malignant transformation in oral mucosa

BACKGROUND

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) ranks as the sixth most common tumor entity worldwide. Unfortunately, the multimodal treatment consisting of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy does not show the desired efficacy. The intent of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of an oral brush biopsy in combination with glucose transporter (GLUT)-1 staining in identifying premalignant and malignant lesions.

METHODS

A total of 72 patients were included in the study, divided into four diagnostic subgroups (24 healthy, 15 carcinoma, 18 leukoplakia, 15 oral lichen planus). Oral brush biopsies were taken and analyzed for GLUT-1 expression by immunocytologic staining. Incisional biopsy served as the gold standard.

RESULTS

Twelve (80 %) of the 15 carcinomas, nine (50 %) of the 18 leukoplakia, nine (60 %) of the 15 oral lichen planus, and none of the healthy specimens stained positive for GLUT-1. This resulted in a sensitivity rate of 80 % and a specificity rate of 68.42 %. Diagnostic accuracy was 70.83 % based on the correct diagnoses in 51 of 72 patients.

CONCLUSION

An oral brush biopsy can easily be performed throughout the entire oral cavity, is noninvasive, and shows high sensitivity and specificity rates with conventional cytology or computer-assisted analysis.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The significance of GLUT-1-specific staining with an oral brush biopsy is more limited than expected but could be used as an additional tool in detecting malignant transformation in the oral cavity.

Diabetes mellitus and the skin

Diabetes is a debilitating, life-threatening disease accounting in 2015 for the death of 5 million people worldwide. According to new estimations, 415 million adults currently suffer from the disease, and this number is expected to rise to 642 million by 2040. High glucose blood levels also affect the skin among systemic organs, and skin disorders can often predict the onset of this metabolic disorder. In this review, we address the pathomechanistic effects of diabetes on the skin and give an overview on the most common skin diseases associated with diabetes.

Assessment of systemic inflammation with neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio in lichen planus

Introduction

Lichen planus (LP) is a papulosquamous eruption of the skin and mucous membranes. Although the exact pathogenesis of the disease remains unclear, it is believed that LP represents an inflammatory disorder. Neutrophil-lymphocyte (N/L) ratio is considered a systemic inflammatory marker that correlated with severity of the diseases.

Aim

To investigate whether N/L ratio increases in LP and may be an independent severity marker for LP lesions.

Material and methods

White blood cell (WBC), neutrophil and lymphocyte counts, N/L ratio, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were statistically compared between the patient (n = 55) and the control group (n = 48). The relationship of N/L ratio and the body surface area (BSA) was assessed.

Results

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and CRP were statistically higher in patients with LP than in controls (p < 0.0001). Our analysis revealed a significantly higher level of N/L ratio in patients with LP compared with controls, respectively (2.5 ±1.1 (1.2–7.3) vs. 1.4 ±0.4 (0.8–2.7), p < 0.0001). Body surface area (p = 0.001), CRP (p = 0.006), and ESR (p = 0.003) were identified as possible predictors of N/L ratio, but only BSA (p = 0.002) and ESR (p = 0.003) were found as significant independent predictors in a multiple linear regression model.

Conclusions

The inflammatory process in LP was supported by our results. N/L ratio may have an impact to show the inflammatory status in patients with LP as an inexpensive, simple and effective predictor. It may be used for the severity and treatment option of LP. But, N/L ratio and LP relationship could be confirmed by other large prospective studies.

Does Lichen Planus Cause Increased Carotid Intima-Media Thickness and Impaired Endothelial Function?

BACKGROUND

Lichen planus (LP) has been associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, but there are no studies on the association between LP and subclinical atherosclerosis. We investigated the presence of subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with LP not known to have CVD using carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and flow-mediated dilatation (FMD).

METHODS

The study included 30 patients with LP and 30 controls. High-resolution ultrasonography was used to assess CIMT and FMD. Participants' biochemical parameters, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference were recorded in both groups.

RESULTS

FMD was significantly lower (7.45% ± 3.63% vs 11.01% ± 5.34%; P = 0.004) and CIMT was higher (0.8 mm [range, 0.7-0.9 mm] vs 0.6 mm [0.4-0.6 mm]; P < 0.001) in the LP group compared with the control group. After adjustment for age, sex, BMI, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and C-reactive protein levels, the presence of LP was associated with impairment of FMD (β = -0.441; 95% CI, -9.336 to -0.321; P = 0.037) and an increase in CIMT (β = 0.459; 95% CI, 0.057 to -0.351; P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Reduced FMD and increased CIMT levels are sensitive indicators of target-organ damage and display increased risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Our study found that patients with LP showed a tendency toward impaired levels of FMD and increased CIMT. LP may be a novel predictor of early vascular dysfunction and structural changes.

Lichen planus and dyslipidemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

BACKGROUND

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory disease that has been shown to be positively associated with dyslipidemia. However, the magnitude and types of the underlying lipid abnormalities have not been investigated. This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the qualitative and quantitative association between LP and dyslipidemia.

METHODS

A systematic search of studies published from inception to April 1, 2015, was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane library databases. Meta-analyses of observational studies with both categorical and continuous outcome were performed. DerSimonian and Lard random effects models were utilized to calculate the pooled odds ratio and weighted mean difference (WMD). Publication bias was evaluated by funnel plot and Egger's test.

RESULTS

Seven studies with 5242 subjects were included in this meta-analysis. Patients with LP were significantly more likely to have dyslipidemia, with a pooled odds ratio of 1.74 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.19-2.54, P = 0.004). LP was associated with higher levels of triglycerides (WMD 83.37 mg/dl, 95% CI 0.62-166.12, P = 0.048), low-density lipoprotein (18.75 mg/dl, 95% CI -17.21 to 54.72, P = 0.307), total cholesterol (19.22 mg/dl, 95% CI -8.80 to 47.25, P = 0.179), and lower levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (-8.96 mg/dl, 95% CI -21.22 to 3.30, P = 0.152).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite considerable heterogeneity, this study demonstrated that LP was significantly associated with an increased risk of dyslipidemia and higher triglyceride levels. For patients presenting with LP, physicians should be cognizant of this association and consider screening them for dyslipidemia.

Psychological disorders and oral lichen planus: matched case-control study and literature review

OBJECTIVE

Oral lichen planus (OLP) may be linked to psychological disorders. This study investigated psychological factors associated with OLP.

METHODS

A case-control study with incident OLP case patients and age-gender-socio-economic status-matched controls, recruited from among relatives, accompanying persons, and departmental staff, investigated psychological traits using the Psychological General Well-Being Index-Short form. Common factor analysis was used to generate a set of psychological dimensions. The association between these dimensions and OLP adjusted for confounders (education, number of lifetime sexual partners, drinking-smoking) and interactions was assessed through conditional logistic regression and odds ratios (OR) were estimated.

RESULTS

A total of 67 case-control pairs were recruited. Psychological dimensions generated were: dimension-1 (anxiety, low vitality), dimension-2 (negative well-being, low vitality), dimension-3 (depressed mood, low self-control). The ORs for OLP were, dimension-1, 1.0 (95% confidence interval -95CI, 0.3-2.6); dimension-2, 0.5 (95CI, 0.2-1.2); dimension-3, 4.8 (95CI, 1.8-12.9). Dimension-3 was highly associated with mild, but not associated with severe, OLP. Literature searching provided 21 studies, with anxiety and depression principally associated with OLP.

CONCLUSIONS

Depressed mood and low self-control were highly associated with OLP, particularly the reticular-papular forms. These traits could have a causative role in OLP development-progression, but further investigations are necessary.

Prevalence of Oral Mucosal Disorders in Diabetes Mellitus Patients Compared with a Control Group

Chronic hyperglycemia is associated with impaired wound healing and higher susceptibility to infections. It is unclear whether patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) present more oral mucosal disorders compared to control groups. The objectives were to compare (a) the prevalence rates of oral mucosal disorders in the DM and non-DM population and (b) the prevalence rates of specific disorders in the DM and non-DM population. Full-text articles were included if they met the following inclusion criteria: (a) they must be original articles from scientific journals, (b) they must be only cross-sectional studies in English, (c) the prevalence of oral mucosal disorders in DM patients must be evaluated, (d) results must be compared with a healthy control group, and (e) oral mucosal disorders must be specified in DM and non-DM group. All studies showed higher prevalence of oral mucosal disorders in DM patients in relation to non-DM population: 45-88% in type 2 DM patients compared to 38.3-45% in non-DM groups and 44.7% in type 1 DM patients compared to 25% in non-DM population. Tongue alterations and denture stomatitis were the most frequent significant disorders observed. The quality assessment following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Prevalence Critical Appraisal Tool showed the low quality of the existing studies.

Serum level of Interleukin-8 in subjects with diabetes, diabetes plus oral lichen planus, and oral lichen planus: A biochemical study

BACKGROUND

Correlation between diabetes mellitus (DM) and oral lichen planus (OLP) seems probable. Since Interleukin-8 (IL-8) is an important inflammatory mediator involved in both conditions, this study aimed to measure and compare the serum level of IL-8 in DM, OLP, and DM + OLP patients in comparison with healthy individuals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross sectional study was conducted on 75 patients (30 OLP, 5 OLP and type II DM, 20 type II DM, and 20 healthy controls). Serum levels of IL-8, fasting blood sugar (FBS) and 2-h postprandial blood sugar were measured in the four groups. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 by one-way ANOVA and post_hocleast significant difference test.

RESULTS

Type II DM patients with OLP had the highest mean serum level of IL-8 followed by OLP, DM and control groups, respectively. Pairwise comparison of groups revealed significant differences in serum IL-8 between the control and OLP and also control and OLP+DM (P < 0.05) groups. No other significant differences were noted. The mean levels of FBS and 2-h postprandial blood sugar were the highest in OLP+DM patients followed by DM, OLP and control groups, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The ascending trend of serum level of IL-8 in the control, DM, OLP, and DM+OLP patients may indicate the role of this factor in the pathogenesis of DM and OLP. Moreover, it may play a synergistic role in patients suffering from both conditions.

Alterations in Lipid Metabolism and Antioxidant Status in Lichen Planus

Background:

Lichen planus (LP), a T-cell-mediated inflammatory disorder, wherein inflammation produces lipid metabolism disturbances, is linked to increase in cardiovascular (CV) risk with dyslipidemia. Increased reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxides have also been implicated in its pathogenesis.

Aim and Objective:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the status on lipid disturbances, oxidative stress, and inflammation in LP patients.

Materials and Methods:

The study was initiated after obtaining Institutional Ethics Committee permission and written informed consent from participants. The study included 125 patients (74 LP patients and 51 age and sex-matched controls) visiting the outpatient clinic in the dermatology department of our hospital. Variables analyzed included lipid profile, C-reactive protein (CRP), malondialdehyde (MDA), and catalase (CAT) activity.

Results:

Analysis of lipid parameters revealed significantly higher levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) along with decreased levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in LP patients as compared to their respective controls. LP patients also presented with a significantly higher atherogenic index that is, (TC/HDL-C) and LDL-C/HDL-C ratios than the controls. A significant increase in CRP levels was observed among the LP patients. There was a statistically significant increase in the serum levels of the lipid peroxidation product, MDA and a statistically significant decrease in CAT activity in LP patients as compared to their respective controls. A statistically significant positive correlation (r = 0.96) was observed between serum MDA levels and duration of LP whereas a significantly negative correlation (r = −0.76) was seen between CAT activity and LP duration.

Conclusion:

Chronic inflammation in patients with LP may explain the association with dyslipidemia and CV risk. Our findings also suggest that an increase in oxidative stress and imbalance in the antioxidant defense mechanisms in LP may play a role in the pathogenesis of LP.

Lipid profile and metabolic syndrome status in patients with oral lichen planus, oral lichenoid reaction and healthy individuals attending a dental college in northern India - a descriptive study

BACKGROUND

Chronic inflammation causes disturbances in the lipid metabolism. When this dyslipidemia becomes prolonged it increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Recent literature reveals similar dyslipidemia in patients with lichen planus. However, the results were not compared with lichenoid reactions.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to profile the lipid levels and metabolic syndrome status in patients with oral lichen planus (OLP), oral lichenoid reactions (OLR) and healthy individuals in order to evaluate their respective cardiovascular risk.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This case-control descriptive study included 32 adults from the OPD visiting the Department of Oral Medicine, 18 with either oral lichen planus or oral lichenoid reactions and 14 age and sex matched healthy controls. Ethical clearance and informed consent were obtained. Their lipid levels, body mass index and metabolic syndrome status were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed with the SPSS version 16.0 software.P≥0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

The key findings of this study were a) increased levels of S.cholesterol and LDL-C in OLP and OLR patients when compared to normal healthy individuals b) significantly higher S.triglyceride and VLDL in OLP when compared to OLR and c) lower HDL-C levels in OLP when compared to OLR. 2(18%) patients with OLP and 3(50%) with OLR were found to have high BMI suggestive of obesity whereas none of the normal individuals were obese.

CONCLUSION

There may be an association between chronic inflammation and dyslipidemia that increases the risk for cardiovascular disease. OLP and OLR patients have increased serum cholesterol and LDL-C when compared to normal adults. Further research on lipid levels in OLR are required to establish the findings of this study.

Increased P-wave dispersion in patients with newly diagnosed lichen planus

OBJECTIVE

Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune mucocutaneous disease. Recent research has emphasized the strong association between inflammation and both P-wave dispersion and dyslipidemia. The difference between the maximum and minimum P-wave durations on an electrocardiogram is defined as P-wave dispersion. The prolongation of P-wave dispersion has been demonstrated to be an independent risk factor for developing atrial fibrillation. The aim of this study was to investigate P-wave dispersion in patients with lichen planus.

METHODS

Fifty-eight patients with lichen planus and 37 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were included in this study. We obtained electrocardiographic recordings from all participants and used them to calculate the P-wave variables. We also assessed the levels of highly sensitive C-reactive protein, which is an inflammatory marker, and the lipid levels for each group. The results were reported as the means ± standard deviations and percentages.

RESULTS

The P-wave dispersion was significantly higher in lichen planus patients than in the control group. Additionally, highly sensitive C-reactive protein, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels were significantly higher in lichen planus patients compared to the controls. There was a significant positive correlation between highly sensitive C-reactive protein and P-wave dispersion (r=0.549, p<0.001) in lichen planus patients.

CONCLUSIONS

P-wave dispersion increased on the surface electrocardiographic measurements of lichen planus patients. This result may be important in the early detection of subclinical cardiac involvement. Increased P-wave dispersion, in terms of the tendency for atrial fibrillation, should be considered in these patients.

Skin signs in diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is the most common endocrine disorder with continuously increasing prevalence. Blood vessels, nerves, eyes, kidneys and skin are affected, which causes both an enormous financial burden and a reduced quality of life of the affected patients. Long-standing diabetes may impair skin homeostasis resulting in skin manifestations in at least one third of all diabetics. The skin involvement may be the first presenting sign of diabetes, thus the respective skin signs should lead to diabetes focused diagnostic. Besides, the skin signs may be considered as a marker for the course of the disease or for the success of therapeutic interventions.

The magnitude of the association between hepatitis C virus infection and oral lichen planus: meta-analysis and case control study

Although hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with oral lichen planus (OLP), a case-control study and a meta-analysis were designed to investigate the magnitude of such an association. A total of 413 presumptive OLP patients (18-75 years) who referred to a dental clinic in Rasht (Iran) were consecutively selected. OLP was diagnosed clinically (typical forms) and histologically (atypical forms) by a calibrated examiner. A total of 487 adults (20-77 years) attending the same dental clinic were the controls. The two groups were homogeneous in terms of age, gender and occupation. Subjects were tested for anti-HCV antibodies. The odds ratio (OR) for OLP attributable to HCV infection was non-significant [OR 1.2, 95% confidence interval (95CI) 0.3-4.8], suggesting that the association between HCV and OLP was weak in the Iranian context. Meta-analysis of observational studies characteristics of primary studies were that cases were diagnosed clinically (only typical forms) and histologically and exposure was assessed through anti-HCV antibodies. Exposed/unexposed cases/controls were extracted and zero values were appropriately transformed. As much as 44 studies, including the present, were located. Publication bias could not be totally excluded. The pooled OR, estimated using the random-effect model, was 2.8 (95CI 2.4-3.2). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of results. Subgroup analysis showed non-significant differences between American/European and Asian/African studies. The fraction of global OLP cases associated with HCV (population attributable fraction) was 2.1% (95CI 1.9-2.2%). Although HCV and OLP were significantly associated, the majority of OLP patients were not affected by HCV.

Diabetes mellitus and oral mucosa alterations: prevalence and risk factors

AIMS

To investigate the prevalence of oral mucosa alterations in patients with type 2 diabetes and to identify possible risk factors related to oral mucosa alterations.

METHODS

146 patients with type 2 diabetes and 111 age- and gender-matched healthy controls subjects were consecutively recruited from Araraquara School of Dentistry to answer a structured questionnaire designed to collect demographic data as well as current and former history of diabetes. Clinical examination of the oral mucosa was carried out by a stomatologist.

RESULTS

A higher prevalence of oral mucosa alterations was found in patients with diabetes than in patients without diabetes (p<0.001), with significant difference to development conditions (p<0.0001), potentially malignant disorders (p<0.0001) and fungal infections (p<0.05). In the multiple logistic regression, diabetes (odds ratio 9.9 IC 5.11-19.16) and smoking habit (odds ratio 3.17 IC 1.42-7.12) increased the odds of oral mucosa alterations significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with diabetes mellitus not only showed an increased prevalence of oral mucosa alterations but also a significant percentage of potentially malignant disorders. These findings elucidate the necessity of regular clinical examination to ensure early diagnosis and prompt management of oral mucosa lesions in patients with diabetes.