Oral lichen planus clinical characteristics in Italian patients: a retrospective analysis

Oral Lichen Planus: A Narrative Review Navigating Etiologies, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnostics, and Therapeutic Approaches

Background/Objectives: Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is a common immune-mediated inflammatory disorder affecting the oral mucosa, impacting 0.5% to 2% of the global population, primarily middle-aged women. Immunological dysregulation is a key factor in OLP's pathogenesis, involving CD4+ T helper and CD8+ T cytotoxic cells. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies OLP as a potentially malignant disorder, with a risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) developing in up to 2% of lesions. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the etiopathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, and therapeutic strategies for OLP, informing clinical practice and guiding future research. Methods: A review of the literature from the PubMed and Google Scholar databases was conducted up to December 2023, focusing on studies addressing the etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, clinical manifestations, and treatment of OLP. Results: OLP's pathogenesis is driven by immune dysregulation, with CD4+ and CD8+ cells playing crucial roles. Clinically, OLP presents as reticular, erosive, bullous, and plaque-like lesions. Diagnosis relies on clinical examination, histopathology, and direct immunofluorescence. Recent advancements in diagnostic markers and imaging techniques have improved detection and monitoring. Treatment primarily involves corticosteroids, but novel therapies such as curcumin, retinoids, and laser therapy are increasingly used for their effectiveness and reduced side effects. These treatments show promise in symptom reduction and recurrence prevention, although long-term data are needed. Conclusions: Regular screenings and biopsies are essential due to OLP's likelihood of malignant transformation. This study urges further investigation into long-term results, improved diagnostic techniques, and evidence-based treatment regimens.

Role of Vitamin D in Oral Lichen Planus: A Case Control Study

BACKGROUND

It has been reported that vitamin D deficiency may be associated with the development of oral lichen planus (OLP). Given the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in many countries, we sought to determine whether it constitutes a comorbidity of OLP.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty patients clinically and histologically diagnosed with OLP were evaluated for their serum vitamin D levels. The results were compared to results from a control series of the same number of subjects matched for age and sex.

RESULTS

Vitamin D deficiency was diagnosed in 45% (n = 54) of OLP patients and in 26.7% (n = 32) of the control group. Vitamin D supplements were being taken by 32 (26.7%) OLP patients and 15 (12.5%) subjects in the control group. A multivariate logistic regression model showed that OLP was associated with vitamin D deficiency [OR: 2.24 (1.28-3.98, p = 0.005)] and vitamin D supplementation [OR: 2.51 (1.25-5.22, p = 0.011)], even after controlling for confounding variables such as sex, age ≤60>, tobacco, and alcohol.

CONCLUSION

The association between OLP patients and vitamin D deficiency or vitamin D supplementation suggests that further research might explore the benefits of vitamin D supplements in managing OLP patients.

Factors involved in the remission of oral lichen planus treated with topical corticosteroids

AIM

To determine the factors that affected the complete clinical remission of oral lichen planus (OLP) treated with topical corticosteroids.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated the charts of patients diagnosed as OLP. Age, sex, current medical conditions, medications, type of OLP, Thongprasom score, pain level assessed by a numeric rating scale (NRS), Candida infection, topical steroid treatment preparation, duration of treatment until the first complete clinical remission, and follow-up duration were assessed as variables.

RESULTS

In total 100 patients, after complete remission, 22 patients reported a relapse within 1.5-45 months, with a mean of 15.6 ± 13.2 months. Age, duration, gingiva and vestibule area, hypertension, dyslipidemia, Thongprasom score, preparation and topical corticosteroid potency were factors affecting the remission. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the patients' age and duration of treatment were significant factors after adjusted for age, sex, and independent factors with a P-value < 0.1 in the univariate analysis. The likelihood of having incomplete remission of the OLP lesion increased by 7.9% for every year increase in age and increased by 2.3% for every month of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

There are many different factors between the complete remission and incomplete remission groups. However, age and duration of treatment were significant factors affecting the remission of OLP.

Arabic Web-Based Information on Oral Lichen Planus: Content Analysis

BACKGROUND

The use of web-based health information (WBHI) is on the rise, serving as a valuable tool for educating the public about health concerns and enhancing treatment adherence. Consequently, evaluating the availability and quality of context-specific WBHI is crucial to tackle disparities in health literacy and advance population health outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore and assess the quality of the WBHI available and accessible to the public on oral lichen planus (OLP) in Arabic.

METHODS

The Arabic translation of the term OLP and its derivatives were searched in three general search platforms, and each platform's first few hundred results were reviewed for inclusion. We excluded content related to cutaneous LP, content not readily accessible to the public (eg, requiring subscription fees or directed to health care providers), and content not created by health care providers or organizations (ie, community forums, blogs, and social media). We assessed the quality of the Arabic WBHI with three standardized and validated tools: DISCERN, Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmarks, and Health On the Net (HON).

RESULTS

Of the 911 resources of WBHI reviewed for eligibility, 49 were included in this study. Most WBHI resources were provided by commercial affiliations (n=28, 57.1%), with the remainder from academic or not-for-profit affiliations. WBHI were often presented with visual aids (ie, images; n=33, 67.4%). DISCERN scores were highest for WBHI resources that explicitly stated their aim, while the lowest scores were for providing the effect of OLP (or OLP treatment) on the quality of life. One-quarter of the resources (n=11, 22.4%) met all 4 JAMA benchmarks, indicating the high quality of the WBHI, while the remainder of the WBHI failed to meet one or more of the JAMA benchmarks. HON scores showed that one-third of WBHI sources had scores above 75%, indicating higher reliability and credibility of the WBHI source, while one-fifth of the sources scored below 50%. Only 1 in 7 WBHI resources scored simultaneously high on all three quality instruments. Generally, WBHI from academic affiliations had higher quality scores than content provided by commercial affiliations.

CONCLUSIONS

There are considerable variations in the quality of WBHI on OLP in Arabic. Most WBHI resources were deemed to be of moderate quality at best. Providers of WBHI could benefit from increasing collaboration between commercial and academic institutions in creating WBHI and integrating guidance from international quality assessment tools to improve the quality and, hopefully, the utility of these valuable WBHI resources.

An Evidence-Based Update on the Potential for Malignancy of Oral Lichen Planus and Related Conditions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

A systematic review and a meta-analysis is presented on published articles on the malignant transformation of oral lichen planus (OLP) and related conditions, which, based on current evidence, updates an earlier systematic review published by our research group that included publications until November 2018. In this updated study (Nov-2023) we searched MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus. We evaluated the methodological quality of studies (QUIPS tool) and carried out meta-analyses. The inclusion criteria were met by 101 studies (38,083 patients), of which, 20 new primary-level studies (11,512 patients) were published in the last 5 years and were added to our updated study. The pooled malignant transformation ratio was 1.43% (95% CI = 1.09-1.80) for OLP; 1.38% (95% CI = 0.16-3.38) for oral lichenoid lesions; 1.20% (95% CI = 0.00-4.25) for lichenoid reactions; and 5.13% (95% CI = 1.90-9.43) for OLP with dysplasia. No significant differences were found between the OLL or LR groups and the OLP subgroup (p = 0.853 and p = 0.328, respectively), and the malignant transformation was significantly higher for the OLP with dysplasia group in comparison with the OLP group (p = 0.001). The factors that had a significant impact with a higher risk of malignant transformation were the presence of epithelial dysplasia, a higher methodological quality, the consumption of tobacco and alcohol, the location of lesions on the tongue, the presence of atrophic and erosive lesions, and infection by the hepatitis C virus. In conclusion, OLP behaves as an oral potentially malignant disorder (OPMD), whose malignancy ratio is probably underestimated as a consequence essentially of the use of inadequate diagnostic criteria and the low methodological quality of the studies on the subject.

Evaluation of clinical and demographical finding in patients with oral lichen planus: A retrospective cross sectional study

OBJECTIVE

Aim: To learn more about Oral Lichen Planus Iraqi patients, including their background information, symptoms, and prognosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Materials and Methods: From the Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Department, College of Dentistry, Baghdad University, we retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 68 patients with a histologically confirmed clinical diagnosis of oral lichen planus and subsequently contacted the patients by phone to evaluate their prognosis.

RESULTS

Results: Females were more likely than males to experience severe pain; the reticular form of Oral Lichen Planus was the most prevalent at 38.2%, but the erosive type was more prevalent among females. Only 53 of 68 patients responded to phone calls. More than 37% of those respondents reported involvement at a second location intra-orally following the first oral manifestation, and 20% had extraoral Lichen Planus, and approximately 22.6% of them observed changes in the morphology and behavior of the lesion after a brief period of time, while 26.4% experienced complete remission.

CONCLUSION

Conclusions: Females were more likely to have oral lichen planus. Females and elderly persons were more likely to have severe pain than other. The lesion must be monitored for symptomatic flare-ups over time.

Bidirectional Association between Lichen Planus and Hepatitis C-An Update Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic, inflammatory mucocutaneous disorder associated with systemic diseases such as hepatitis C (HCV). The objective of this study is to evaluate the association between LP and HCV bidirectionally through a systematic review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive search of studies published was performed in the databases of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Out of 18,491 articles, 192 studies were included. The global prevalence of HCV positive (HCV+) in LP patients registered from 143 studies was 9.42% [95% confidence interval (CI), 7.27-11.58%], and from these, 84 studies showed HCV+ 4-fold more frequent in LP than a control group (OR, 4.48; 95% CI, 3.48-5.77). The global prevalence of LP in patients HCV+ recorded from 49 studies was 7.05% (95% CI, 4.85-9.26%), and from these, 15 registered a 3-fold more LP in HCV (OR, 3.65; 95% CI, 2.14-6.24). HCV+ in LP patients showed great geographic variability (OR, 2.7 to 8.57), and the predominantly cutaneous location was higher (OR, 5.95) than the oral location (OR, 3.49). LP in HCV+ patients was more frequent in the Eastern Mediterranean (OR, 5.51; 95% CI, 1.40-15.57). There is a higher prevalence of HCV+ in LP and vice versa than in the control group, especially in certain geographical areas that should be taken into consideration when doing screening in countries with an upper prevalence of HCV among the general population.

Rate of Malignant Transformation Differs Based on Diagnostic Criteria for Oral Lichenoid Conditions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 24,277 Patients

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the evidence on the malignant potential of oral lichenoid conditions (OLCs) including oral lichen planus (OLP), oral lichenoid lesions (OLL), and lichenoid mucositis dysplasia (LMD). In addition, it aims to compare the rate of malignant transformation (MT) in OLP patients diagnosed according to different diagnostic criteria, and to investigate the possible risk factors for OLP MT into OSCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A standardized search strategy was applied across four databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus). Screening, identification and reporting followed the PRISMA framework. Data on MT were calculated as a pooled proportion (PP), subgroup analyses and possible risk factors for MT were pooled as odds ratios (ORs).

RESULTS

Among 54 studies with 24,277 patients, the PP for OLCs MT was 1.07% (95% CI [0.82, 1.32]). The estimated MT rate for OLP, OLL and LMD was 0.94%, 1.95% and 6.31%, respectively. The PP OLP MT rate using the 2003 modified WHO criteria group was lower than that using the non-2003 criteria (0.86%; 95% CI [0.51, 1.22] versus 1.01%; 95% CI [0.67, 1.35]). A higher odds ratio of MT was observed for red OLP lesions (OR = 3.52; 95% CI [2.20, 5.64]), smokers (OR = 1.79; 95% CI [1.02, 3.03]), alcohol consumers (OR = 3.27, 95% CI [1.11, 9.64]) and those infected with HCV (OR = 2.55, 95% CI [1.58, 4.13]), compared to those without these risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

OLP and OLL carry a low risk of developing OSCC. MT rates differed based on diagnostic criteria. A higher odds ratio of MT was observed among red OLP lesions, smokers, alcohol consumers, and HCV-positive patients. These findings have implications for practice and policies.

Gingival lichen planus: A clinical and pathological study

BACKGROUND

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a common immune-mediated chronic inflammatory disease affecting the oral mucosa. It is most likely to occur in adults, particularly in women. The most commonly affected areas are the buccal mucosa, tongue and gingiva, either alone or in combination. The aim of this study was to analyse the clinicopathological characteristics of gingival lichen planus in a series of patients diagnosed between 2000 and 2019.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Files of 190 patients with histopathologically confirmed gingival lichen planus were retrieved from the archives of the Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology of the Geneva University Hospitals. We analysed the demographic characteristics of the patients, the location, clinical presentation and histopathological characteristics of the lesions, and the presence of symptoms.

RESULTS

The majority of the patients were women (74.2%). The age ranged between 12 and 88 years of age, with a mean of 58.6 years. 79 cases (41.6%) of gingival lichen planus were confined to the gingiva. In the remaining cases, the gingival lesions were associated with other localisations, mostly the buccal mucosa and the tongue, as well as other intraoral and extra-oral sites. 38.7% of the patients presented mixed form of OLP, 27.8% keratotic form and 22.4% erythematous/erosive form. The mixed and the erythematous/erosive forms were the most symptomatic lesions. The majority of gingival lichen planus were active atrophic. A total of seven malignant transformation were found (3.7% of the cases).

CONCLUSION

Gingival lichen planus is a chronic disease that can have many different clinical and histological presentations. Long-term regular follow-up of gingival lichen planus is recommended to detect signs of malignant transformation.

Association of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and anti-thyroid antibodies with oral lichen planus: A cross-sectional study

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) and its autoantibodies may be associated with oral lichen planus (OLP). In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to assess the relationship among HT, auto-anti-thyroid antibodies, and OLP in a Chinese population of 247 patients with oral lichen planus. Clinical manifestations of OLP were evaluated using the Thongprasom scoring system and clinical type. The diagnosis of HT was based on thyroid function, anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody (anti-TPOAb) and anti-thyroglobulin antibody (anti-TgAb) detection, and ultrasonography. The prevalence of HT in all patients with OLP was 39.68% (98/247); the prevalence in females with OLP was 46.24% (86/186), which was higher than that in males with OLP 19.67% (12/61) (P &lt; 0.01). The titers of the two HT autoantibodies in females with OLP were higher than those in males (P &lt; 0.01). The clinical manifestations of OLP, regardless of being evaluated using the Thongprasom system or clinical type, were not significantly associated with HT development or TPOAb (P = 0.864) or TgAb titers (P = 0.745). In this population-based southern Chinese cohort, the prevalence of HT in patients with OLP, particularly in female patients with OLP, was significantly higher than that in the general population. Female patients had higher HT autoantibody titers than male patients. However, the clinical manifestations of OLP were not significantly correlated with either HT development or auto-anti-thyroid antibody levels. The findings could help further elucidate the factors involved in the relationship between oral lichen planus and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Where do you live? North versus Central-South differences in relation to Italian patients with oral lichen planus: a cross-sectional study from the SIPMO (Italian Society of Oral Pathology and Medicine)

BACKGROUND

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is an immune-mediated inflammatory chronic disease of the oral mucosa, with different patterns of clinical manifestations which range from keratotic manifestations (K-OLP) to predominantly non-keratotic lesions (nK-OLP). The aim of the study was to analyze the differences in the clinical, psychological profile and symptoms between Italian patients of the North and Central-South with K-OLP and nK-OLP.

METHODS

270 K-OLP and 270 nK-OLP patients were recruited in 15 Italian universities. The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Total Pain Rating Index (T-PRI), Hamilton Rating Scales for Depression and for Anxiety (HAM-D and HAM-A), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) were administered.

RESULTS

The Central-South K-OLP (CS-K-OLP) patients reported a higher frequency of pain/burning compared with the K-OLP patients of the North (N-K-OLP) with higher scores in the NRS and T-PRI (p value < 0.001**). The CS-K-OLP and the CS-nK-OLP patients showed higher scores in the HAM-D, HAM-A, PSQI and ESS compared with the Northern patients (p value < 0.001**). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that the NRS and T-PRI showed the greatest increase in the R2 value for the CS-K-OLP (DR2 = 9.6%; p value < 0.001**; DR2 = 9.7% p value < 0.001**; respectively) and that the oral symptoms (globus, itching and intraoral foreign body sensation) and PSQI showed the greatest increase in the R2 value for the CS-nK-OLP (DR2 = 5.6%; p value < 0.001**; DR2 = 4.5% p value < 0.001** respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Pain and mood disorders are predominant in patients with OLP in the Central-South of Italy. Clinicians should consider that the geographical living area may explain the differences in oral symptoms and psychological profile in OLP.

Cost of illness of oral lichen planus: a multicenter university hospital-based outpatient observational study

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the economic costs of oral lichen planus (OLP) through a multicenter university hospital-based outpatient study conducted in Italy and Finland.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A multicenter retrospective study was conducted on patients affected by OLP to evaluate the economic cost of managing the disease. Direct costs concerning diagnostic procedures, therapeutic management, and follow-up visits were obtained from clinical records. Statistics was performed with IBM SPSS Statistics.

RESULTS

One hundred and eight patients with a confirmed diagnosis of OLP (81 women and 27 men), 58 Italians and 50 Finnish, were enrolled in this study. The mean annual cost was 1087.2 euros per patient. The mean annual cost was higher in Finnish than in Italian cohort (1558.7 euros vs. 680.7 euros-p < 0.05). Within the Italian cohort, the local immunosuppressive therapy group and atrophic and erosive OLP type had a higher cost (p < 0.05). Within the Finnish cohort, the local immunosuppressive therapy group had a higher cost (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

OLP-related costs are very similar to other chronic oral disorders (i.e., periodontitis) with differences between investigated countries. Moreover, patients with more severe clinical features, who need immunosuppressive therapy, are facing more expensive costs.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

In this multicenter cost of illness study, we estimated the direct health care costs of OLP and we found that patients with more severe clinical features, who therefore need symptomatic therapy, are facing more expensive costs.

Comparative efficacy of topical aloe vera and low-level laser therapy in the management of oral lichen planus: a randomized clinical trial

This randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the efficacy of topical aloe vera with low-level laser therapy in patients with oral lichen planus (OLP). A randomized, parallel arm, single-blind study comprising of 60 patients with OLP was randomly divided into two groups. Group A was given topical aloe vera extract gel applied thrice daily for 2 months, and group B was given low-level laser therapy (LLLT) at 980 nm twice weekly for 2 months. Both groups were followed up for 9 months. Patients were assessed for various parameters according to the Escudier scale at baseline, after treatment at 9 months. Results were assessed using the McNemar-Bowker test and the Mann-Whitney U test. Both individual groups showed significant (p < 0.05) results at the end of the treatment period (0-2 months) and the follow-up period (2-7 months). Intergroup comparison showed significant results in the laser group (reduction of VAS by 44.1%, site score by 24.6%, and activity score by 50%) as compared with the aloe vera group (reduction of VAS by 26.7%, site score by 9.2%, and the activity score by 26%) in the treatment period. In the follow-up period, both groups showed insignificant differences in comparison to each other. Within the limitations of the study, LLLT was more effective as compared with topical aloe vera in managing oral lichen planus during the active treatment time, while both were equally effective during the follow-up period. The clinical study was registered under the Clinical Trials Registry India with the registration number CTRI/2018/04/013147.

Association between oral lichen planus and systemic conditions and medications: Case-control study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to investigate the association between oral lichen planus (OLP) and a variety of systemic conditions, medication, and supplement usage.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

A total of 156 patients diagnosed with OLP and 156 controls at Columbia University Irving Medical Center from 2000 to 2013 were selected as part of the matched (1:1) case-control study. Demographics, systemic conditions, prescription medications and supplements were extracted from the patients' medical records. A univariable conditional logistic regression (CLR) analysis was performed to calculate unadjusted odds ratio, to identify significant variables associated with OLP (p < .10). Significant variables were further tested using multivariable CLR analysis with both forward and backward selection to calculate adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and further distinguish variables associated with OLP (p < .05).

RESULTS

This analysis identified six significant variables: thyroid disorder (aOR:5.1,95%CI:2.3-11.2), any form of cancer (aOR:3.4,95%CI:1.4-8.4), type 2 diabetes (aOR:2.8,95%CI:1.2-6.3), hyperlipidemia (aOR:2.3,95%CI:1.3-4.1), oral sedative usage (aOR:6.3,95%CI:1.8-22.5), and vitamin D supplementation (aOR:2.7,95%Cl:1.3-6.0).

CONCLUSION

Thyroid disorders, cancer, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, sedatives, and vitamin D supplementation were found to be associated with OLP. Additional investigation is required to explore these associations, which could shed light on the potential mechanism of OLP and reinforce the idea that oral lesions could be predicative of previously undetected systemic conditions.

Treatment of oral lichen planus by surgical excision and acellular dermal matrix grafting: Eleven case reports and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disorder, and it can affect normal oral function. The conventional treatments for OLP are not always effective, and relapse easily occurs. Therefore, treatment of OLP is difficult and challenging. In this study, we evaluated over a long period the clinical efficacy of surgical excision and acellular dermal matrix (ADM) grafting in patients with refractory OLP.

CASE SUMMARY

Eleven patients with refractory OLP underwent a standardized protocol of surgical excision and ADM grafting. The condition of the area of the grafted wound, the intraoperative maximum mouth opening, pain, and clinical healing were assessed at postoperative follow-up visits. All patients had a flat surgical area with similar mucosal tissue coverage and local scar formation. Patients had no irritation and pain in their mucous membranes when eating acidic and spicy food. All patients’ mouth openings returned to normal within 2-6 mo after surgery. During follow-up, none of the patients had recurrence of OLP after surgery. The longest follow-up was 11 yr and the shortest was 6 mo, and none of the patients relapsed during follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Surgical excision and ADM grafting could be an effective method to treat refractory OLP.

Global Prevalence and Incidence Estimates of Oral Lichen Planus: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Importance

Integrated information on the global prevalence and incidence of oral lichen planus (OLP) is lacking.

Objective

To examine the global prevalence and incidence of OLP in a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data Sources

A systematic review of population-based studies and clinic-based studies reporting the prevalence and incidence of OLP was performed using 3 electronic medical databases (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Embase, and MEDLINE) from their inception to March 2019. The search terms included "(lichen planus or LP) and (prevalence or incidence or epidemiology)." No language restriction was applied.

Study Selection

Observational descriptive studies investigating the prevalence and incidence of OLP were included.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Data were extracted by continent, sex, and other characteristics. The risk of bias was assessed by the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Instrument for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data using random-effects models to synthesize available evidence.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the prevalence (with 95% CIs) of OLP among the overall population and among subgroups. Between-study heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic.

Results

Among 46 studies, the overall pooled estimated prevalence of OLP was 0.89% (95% CI, 0.38%-2.05%) among the general population (n = 462 993) and 0.98% (95% CI, 0.67%-1.43%) among clinical patients (n = 191 963). Among the 15 population-based studies, the prevalence of OLP was 0.57% (95% CI, 0.15%-2.18%) in Asia, 1.68% (95% CI, 1.09%-2.58%) in Europe, and 1.39% (95% CI, 0.58%-3.28%) in South America. Among the 31 clinic-based studies, the prevalence was 1.43% (95% CI, 1.12%-1.83%) in Africa, 0.87% (95% CI, 0.61%-1.25%) in Asia, 1.03% (95% CI, 0.51%-2.09%) in Europe, 0.11% (95% CI, 0.07%-0.16%) in North America, and 3.18% (95% CI, 0.97%-9.95%) in South America. The pooled prevalence of OLP by sex was 1.55% (95% CI, 0.83%-2.89%) for women and 1.11% (95% CI, 0.57%-2.14%) for men in the population-based studies and 1.69% (95% CI, 1.05%-2.70%) for women and 1.09% (95% CI, 0.67%-1.77%) for men in the clinic-based studies. In 5 clinic-based studies providing the age distribution of patients with OLP, the prevalence by age was 0.62% (95% CI, 0.33%-1.13%) among patients younger than 40 years and 1.90% (95% CI, 1.16%-3.10%) among patients 40 years and older.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study identified the global prevalence and incidence of OLP in terms of its spatial, temporal, and population distribution. The overall estimated pooled prevalence of OLP was 0.89% among the general population and 0.98% among clinical patients. A higher prevalence of OLP was found in non-Asian countries, among women, and among people 40 years and older. The findings should be considered with caution because of the high heterogeneity of the included studies.

Malignant transformation in oral lichen planus and lichenoid lesions: a 14-year longitudinal retrospective cohort study of 829 patients in New Zealand

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to identify the rate of malignant transformation in a longitudinal cohort of patients with oral lichen planus and oral lichenoid lesion (OLP/OLL) and to assess the associations between clinicopathologic aspects and malignant transformation.

STUDY DESIGN

Data were taken from the records of 829 patients histologically diagnosed with OLP/OLL in the years 2005 to 2018.

RESULTS

Of the study patients, 548 (66.1%) were females and 281 (33.9%) were males. The average age at diagnosis was 57.3 years. The hyperplastic type was the most frequent (58.5%). Most patients had multiple sites of involvement, with the buccal mucosa being the most frequent site of biopsy. Oral epithelial dysplasia developed in 5 (0.6%) patients with a previous histologic diagnosis of OLP/OLL and developed oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in 23 patients (2.8%) during the follow-up period. The atrophic/ulcerative forms are 25.8 times more likely to progress to OSCC compared with the hyperplastic types (hazard ratio [HR] 25.8; P < .05). The HR increases by 5% with every year of age (HR 1.05; 95% confidence interval; P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, oral epithelial dysplasia developed in less than 1% of patients with OLP/OLL, and OSCC in 2.8%during the follow-up period. The atrophic/ulcerative forms are 25.8 times more likely to progress to OSCC compared with the hyperplastic types. The HR increases by 5% with every year of age.

Oral lichen planus: a novel staging and algorithmic approach and all that is essential to know

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic autoimmune disease. Oral lesions may occur in isolation or in combination with other affected muco-cutaneous sites. Oral LP (OLP) may present as one of the various manifestations of LP or may present as a disease sui generis with a broad range of severity. Despite this disease targeting the oral mucosa, its great impact on quality of life is underrated. In this article, we provide an updated review of the pathophysiology and epidemiology of OLP and offer guidance for its diagnosis and management. We also propose an algorithmic approach to the clinical forms of OLP and a novel staging system to facilitate management decisions.

Immune-mediated Skin Disorders and their Oral Manifestations in the Omani Population: A Hospital-based Study

Objectives

We sought to determine the prevalence of immune-mediated skin disorders (IMDs), their oral manifestations, and the related comorbidity among Omani patients with IMDs attending the outpatient Department of Dermatology and Dental Clinic at Al Nahdha Hospital, Muscat.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of 236 newly-diagnosed patients with IMDs who attended the outpatient clinic between September 2014 and September 2017. Data, such as age, sex, investigations, diagnosis, comorbidity, and associated oral manifestations of the affected individuals, were collected from the hospital health information system.

Results

Of the 236 diagnosed cases of IMD, lichen planus substantially comprised over half of the total cases (59.7%). This was followed by relatively fewer cases of discoid lupus erythematosus (11.0%), systemic lupus erythematosus (10.2%), and erythema multiforme (8.1%). Pemphigus vulgaris and bullous pemphigus comprised only 3.0% and 4.2% of the total studied cases, respectively. The other less common disorders found in our study were toxic epidermal necrolysis (1.7%), pemphigus foliaceus (1.3%), and gestational pemphigoid (0.8%). Oral mucosal involvement was seen more commonly with lichen planus (78.7%), pemphigus vulgaris (71.4%), and erythema multiforme (75.0%), while systemic lupus erythematosus and discoid lupus erythematosus were shown to appear with more comorbidities compared to the other skin disorders studied.

Conclusions

Several IMDs have considerable oral involvement. These oral manifestations of the diseases may be overlooked by other specialists leading to a delay in the diagnosis and its management. In order to circumvent this delay, the analysis and evaluation of a disease need to be done by a team comprising of a dental surgeon, dermatologist, and an oral medicine specialist.

Potentially malignant disorders of the oral cavity and oral dysplasia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of malignant transformation rate by subtype

IMPORTANCE

Potentially malignant disorders of the oral cavity (OPMD) are a heterogeneous group of lesions associated with a variable risk of malignant transformation (MT) to invasive cancer. Leukoplakia (LE), lichen planus (LP), oral lichenoid lesions (OLL), oral erythroplakia (OE), oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), and proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) are among the most common of these lesions. Oral dysplasia is a mucosal area characterized by cellular and architectural derangement, which may be associated with OPMDs or not.

OBJECTIVE

To define the MT rate of OPMDs and the risk of development into cancer of mild vs moderate/severe oral dysplasia. This in order to implement adequate follow-up strategies and treatment decisions.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on studies reporting the MT rates of OPMDs and oral dysplasia. Ninety-two studies were included for the analysis. Cumulative rates were reported for OPMDs overall and as a subgroup, a comparison was made of mild vs moderate/severe dysplasia. Meta-regression on OPMD and year of publication was also performed.

MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURES

Overall MT rates of OPMDs and odds ratio of MT of mild vs moderate/severe dysplasia.

RESULTS

Overall MT rate across all OPMD groups was 7.9% (99% confidence interval [CI] 4.9%-11.5%). MT rates of the specific OPMD subgroups were as follows: LP 1.4% (99% CI 0.9%-1.9%), LE 9.5 (5.9%-14.00%), OLL 3.8% (99% CI 1.6%-7.00%), OSF 5.2% (99% CI 2.9%-8.00%), OE 33.1% (99% CI 13.6%-56.1%), and PVL 49.5% (99% CI 26.7%-72.4%). Regarding the dysplasia grades comparison, the meta-analysis showed that moderate/severe dysplasia is meaningfully associated to a much greater risk of MT compared to mild dysplasia with an odds ratio of 2.4 (95% CI 1.5-3.8) [Correction added on 27 December 2019, after first online publication: CI updated from 99% to 95%.]. Heterogeneity was not significant. Annual MT rates were approximated based on the average follow-up as reported in the various subgroups. Lichen planus had an annual MT of 0.28%, OLL of 0.57%, leukoplakia of 1.56%, PVL of 9.3%, and OSF of 0.98%. Mild dysplasia had an annual MT of 1.7%, while severe dysplasia of 3.57%. Meta-regression showed a significant negative correlation of PVL MT rate and year of the study (P value <.001).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

OPMDs and oral dysplasia are relatively common conditions that general practitioners, head and neck, and oral medicine specialists, face in their everyday practice. Our analysis confirms the significant risk of MT of these lesions, although variable among the subgroups. Moderate/severe dysplasia bears a much higher risk of cancer evolution than mild dysplasia. It is important to raise public health awareness on the MT rates of these conditions, at the same time efficacious communication with the patient is of utmost importance. This, coupled with strict follow-up measures and optimal treatment strategies, would help in reducing the transformation of these oral conditions into invasive cancer.

Clinical profile of 102 patients with oral lichen planus in Thailand

Background

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin and mucous membrane presented with various clinical appearances. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the clinical profile of patients with OLP.

Material and Methods

The dental records of 102 patients who visited Oral Medicine Clinic, Dental Hospital, Naresuan University during 2002-2018 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

There were 75 (73.5%) women and 27 (26.5%) men, giving a female to male ratio of 2.8:1. The age of OLP patients ranged 20-81 years old with the mean age of 56.4 ± 13.2 years old. Seventy-eight patients (76.5%) had the history of systemic diseases and hypertension was the predominantly one. Most patients were non-smokers (98%), non-drinkers (86.3%) and non-betel nut chewers (98%). The atrophic form (93.1%) was the most common OLP. The lesions were mainly symptomatic (92.2%) and involved multiple locations (67.6%) where the buccal mucosa (79.4%) primarily affected. Only 2% were extraoral lesions detected on the skin. Patients had no family history of OLP or malignant transformation. Ninety-one patients (89.2%) were treated with topical steroid and only 4 patients were prescribed a combination of tropical and systemic steroid.

Conclusions

The results of the study indicated that most of characteristics are in accordance with previous studies. Since, OLP is a chronic inflammatory oral mucosal disease with high recurrence rate, early detection, accurately diagnosis, and long-term follow-up are necessary to evaluate the exacerbation and malignant transformation.

Key words:Clinical profile, demographic, oral lichen planus, retrospective study.

Oral lichen planus and thyroid gland diseases: possible associations

Background

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory mucocutaneous disease that commonly affects the oral cavity. Previous reports have suggested a possible association between LP and thyroid gland diseases (TGDs). The purpose of this study was to investigate possible associations between oral lichen planus (OLP) and TGDs.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with OLP, both clinically and histopathologically (N = 102), were classified according to clinical course (symptomatic/asymptomatic), type (reticular/plaque, atrophic and erosive) and location of lesions. Data on TGDs was compared to age- and gender-matched controls (N = 102) without OLP. Diagnosis of any type of TGD and related medication for study and control groups was recorded from the medical files provided by patients’ physicians. Statistical analysis used Student’s t-test and Fisher’s exact test; significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

TGDs (all), hypothyroidism and related medications were found in 16.6, 12.7 and 12.7% of patients with OLP, respectively. These findings were similar to the control group: TGDs (all) -15.7%, hypothyroidism - 9.8% and thyroid gland disease-related medication - 9.8% (p > 0.05). No significant associations were found between different characteristics of OLP and hypothyroidism or other TGD (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

We found no significant associations between the co-existence of OLP and TGD or related-medications. Our findings are in agreement with some of the previously published similar studies but in controversy with others. Further well-designed, multicenter studies with large groups of patients and controls may help to establish the nature of the associations between OLP and TGDs.

Malignant transformation risk of oral lichen planus: A systematic review and comprehensive meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate current evidence on the malignant transformation of oral lichen planus (OLP), oral lichenoid lesions (OLLs), and oral lichenoid reactions (LRs) and to determine the variables with greatest influence on cancer development.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus for studies published before November 2018. We evaluated the quality of studies (QUIPS tool). We carried out meta-analyses to fulfill our objectives. We examined the between-study heterogeneity and small-study effects, and conducted sensitivity studies and subgroup analyses.

RESULTS

Inclusion criteria were met by 82 studies (26,742 patients. The combined malignant transformation rate was 1.14% for OLP (95% CI = 0.84-1.49), 1.88% for OLLs (95% CI = 0.15-4.95) and 1.71% for LRs (95% CI = 0.00-5.46). Subgroup analysis revealed a higher malignant transformation rate in studies when the presence of epithelial dysplasia was not an exclusion criterion (p = 0.001), when both clinical and histopathological criteria were used for diagnosis (p < 0.001), when the follow-up was at least 12 months (p = 0.048), and when there was lower risk of potential bias (p = 0.002). Malignant transformation risk factors were: tongue localization (RR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.21-2.74, p = 0.004), presence of atrophic-erosive lesions (RR = 4.09, 95% CI = 2.40-6.98, p < 0.001), tobacco use (RR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.28-3.05, p = 0.002), alcohol consumption (RR = 2.28, 95% CI = 1.14-4.56, p = 0.02), and hepatitis C virus infection (RR = 4.46, 95% CI = 0.98-20.22, p = 0.053).

CONCLUSIONS

The malignant transformation rates of OLP, OLLs and LRs are underestimated due essentially to restrictive diagnostic criteria, inadequate follow-up periods, and/or low quality of studies.

Oxidative Stress and Oral Mucosal Diseases: An Overview

BACKGROUND

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals are physiologically produced during cellular metabolism. When their balance is disrupted in favor of ROS, a condition called oxidative stress occurs. Oxidative stress represents a widespread phenomenon involved in several pathological conditions. The aim of the present review was to report current knowledge on oxidative stress related to oral mucosal diseases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Articles from 2000 to 2018 were selected for relevance, validity and quality, from results obtained in PubMed, MEDLINE and Google Scholar using the following search terms: oxidative stress and oral lichen, oral pemphigus, aphthous stomatitis, oral leukoplakia, oral cancer, oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral carcinoma. All articles were independently screened for eligibility by the authors.

RESULTS

This narrative review integrates extensive information from all relevant published studies focusing on oxidative stress in oral mucosal diseases. We outline the pathogenetic function of oxidative stress in the most frequent inflammatory, potentially malignant and malignant diseases of the oral mucosa and provide detailed findings from human research.

CONCLUSION

Although variability in findings between individual studies exists, it justifies the conclusion that oxidative stress is a significant process in the oral mucosal diseases pathogenesis.

Correlation between clinical and pathological features of oral lichen planus: A retrospective observational study

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a common, chronic, inflammatory disease of autoimmune origin. The aim of this study is to determine the correlation of the histopathological features with clinical aspects and variants of OLP.We have retrospectively studied a group of 59 adult patients with confirmed clinical and histopathological diagnosis of OLP from the Oral Pathology Unit of the University of Santiago de Compostela (Spain). Clinical parameters: age, gender, location of the lesions, clinical type, toxic habits, and concomitant treatments were evaluated. Histopathologically, the epithelial response (hyperplasia vs atrophy), presence of ulceration, degree of interface lesion and distribution, intensity, and composition of the inflammatory infiltrate were analyzed.Patients treated with several systemic drugs had more atrophic/erosive forms of OLP (P = .019). Plasma cells were found more commonly in cases showing deep inflammatory involvement of the connective subepithelial tissue than in those where inflammation was only superficially located (P <.001). Their presence was also associated with epithelial erosion-ulceration (P <.01).In conclusion, patients treated with several drugs had more atrophic/erosive forms of OLP and frequently associated with a deep specific inflammatory pattern based on plasma cells. Our results could suggest that drug intake by some patients might confer a supplementary aggravating character to the disease, alone or in conjunction with other non-identified factors. More studies should be carried out to confirm this trend and to assess whether this characteristic, can actually influence the evolution of the lesions.

Soft Tissue Disorders of the Mouth

Soft tissue disorders of the mouth encompass a wide expanse of pathophysiology. This article focuses on the identification, etiology, management, and complications of common infectious processes (candidiasis, dental caries, and herpes labialis), inflammatory lesions (sialolithiasis, oral lichen planus, and aphthous ulcer), and benign entities (bony tori and mucocele).

Painful Oral Lesions

Painful oral vesiculoerosive diseases (OVD) include lichen planus, pemphigus vulgaris, mucous membrane pemphigoid, erythema multiforme, and recurrent aphthous stomatitis. OVD lesions have an immunopathic cause. Treatment is aimed at reducing the immunologic and the following inflammatory response. The mainstay of OVD management is topical or systemic corticosteroids to include topical triamcinolone, fluocinonide, and clobetasol, whereas systemic medications used in practice can include dexamethasone, prednisone, and prednisolone. Oral herpetic lesions can be primary or recurrent. If management is desired, they can be treated by topical or systemic antiviral drugs. Topical antiviral creams include prescription acyclovir, penciclovir and over-the-counter docosanol.

Cytokines, cortisol, and nitric oxide as salivary biomarkers in oral lichen planus: a systematic review

The etiopathogenesis of oral lichen planus (OLP) is still not fully elucidated, and it is believed that its development could involve a neuro-immune-endocrine profile. This systematic review investigated the relationship between cytokines, cortisol, and nitric oxide (NO) in the saliva of OLP patients. An electronic search was conducted in Pubmed/Medline, Scopus, LIVIVO, and Web of Science databases with no restriction of language to identify studies published up to December 2017. Data extraction was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A total of 140 articles were retrieved, and 32 articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria (cytokines = 17; cortisol = 9; NO = 6). The most studied cytokines in the saliva of OLP patients were interleukins IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IFN-ү, and TNF-α, which were higher in OLP patients than in healthy controls (HC). Salivary cortisol was found to be higher in OLP than in HC in most (55.5%) of the selected studies, and all studies related to NO found higher levels of this marker in OLP than in HC. Despite controversial results, our review suggests that OLP patients have an increased inflammatory response, as indicated by the proinflammatory profile of salivary cytokines. In addition, we conclude that salivary cytokine and NO measurements may have significant diagnostic and prognostic potential for monitoring disease activity and therapeutic responses in OLP.

Correlation Between Oral Lichen Planus and Thyroid Disease in China: A Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

A possible relationship between oral lichen planus (OLP) and thyroid disease has received attention in recent years.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between OLP and thyroid diseases in Chinese ethnic patients.

METHODS

192 OLP patients, 123 patients with oral lichenoid lesions (OLLs), and 162 controls were recruited in this case-control study. All participants received screening for thyroid function and underwent ultrasound. Sex and age of the patients in the three groups were matched. The prevalence of thyroid diseases in the subjects was analyzed. Using logistic regression, the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals was appraised for associations between OLP, OLL, and different types of thyroid diseases [Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), hypothyroidism, and thyroid nodule].

RESULTS

The prevalence of thyroid diseases in the OLP group (72.4%) and OLL group (68.3%) was higher than the control group (49.4%) with statistical significance. The OR of HT was 3.16 (1.87-5.33) for OLP, 2.09 (1.18-3.70) for OLL, while the OR of thyroid nodule was 2.31 (1.30-4.09) for OLP.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggested a close relationship between OLP/OLL and HT and thyroid nodule in a Chinese population. The possible mechanism behind this association warrants further investigation.

A new spiral dental implant: a tool for oral rehabilitation of difficult cases

Spiral dental implant (SDI) is an implant with a conical internal helix that confers the characteristic of self-drilling, self-tapping, and self-bone condensing. These proprieties offer better control during insertion of SDI giving a high primary stabilization, even in poor quality bone. A shorter diameter of SDI results in reduced drilling during insertion and consequently less trauma and minimal bone loss. To address the research purpose, the investigators designed a retrospective cohort study. The study population was composed of 25 patients, 11 males and 14 females that have been treated by Dr. Balan with 187 SDI positioned in mandible and into maxilla bone. The implants were placed during the years 2013 to 2014 in Dr. Balan clinic. All patients underwent the same surgical protocol. Several variables are investigated: demographic (age and gender), anatomic (upper/lower jaws and tooth site), implant (length and diameter and type) variables, edentulism (partial or total), and comorbid status of health (i.e.: hypothyroidism, parodontitis, hypertension, diabetes, presence of cancer, heart disease, hepatitis and rheumatologic disease). Pearson Chi-Square test was used to investigate variables and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Statistically it has been shown that females have a higher possibility of unsuccessful respect of male, with a "p value" of 0.014. Another important impact factor for success of implant insertion has been represented by concomitants pathologies: cancer represents the most negative high factor risk with a percentage of unsuccessful of 50%, followed by heart disease (15%), and diabetes (3.7%). SDIs are reliable tools for difficult cases of oral rehabilitation. They have a higher success and survival rate, which means stable results over time. No differences were detected among SDI lengths, implant/crown ratio. In addition, the insertion of SDIs in banked bone can be performed without adverse effects. Finally, flapless and computer tomography-planned surgery does not significantly increase the clinical outcome of SDIs in complex rehabilitation. Cancer represents the most important variable to consider when a patient wants to do oral rehabilitation because of its high risk of unsuccessful.

Malignant transformation of oral lichen planus and oral lichenoid lesions: A meta-analysis of 20095 patient data

OBJECTIVES

For over a century, a heated debate existed over the possibility of malignant transformation of oral lichen planus (OLP). We performed this meta-analysis to evaluate the malignant potential of OLP and oral lichenoid lesions (OLL) and investigate the possible risk factors for OLP malignant transformation into oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched Medline, Scopus, and Web of Knowledge for relevant observational studies. Data on OLP malignant transformation were calculated as a pooled proportion (PP), using the Der-Simonian Liard method. We performed subgroup analyses by OLP diagnostic criteria, site, and clinical type, using Open Meta[Analyst] software. Data on possible risk factors for malignant transformation were pooled as odds ratios (ORs), using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software.

RESULTS

Pooling data for OLP malignant transformation from 57 studies (19,676 patients) resulted in an overall PP of 1.1% [95% CI: 0.9%, 1.4%], while pooling data from 14 recent studies that used the World Health Organization-2003 diagnostic criteria resulted in an overall-PP of 0.9% [95% CI: 0.5%, 1.3%]. The risk of malignant transformation was higher (PP=2.5%, 95% CI [1%, 4%]) in OLL patients (419 patients). A significant increase of malignant transformation risk was noted among smokers (OR=2, 95% CI [1.25, 3.22]), alcoholics (OR=3.52, 95% CI [1.54, 8.03]), and HCV-infected patients (OR=5, 95% CI [1.56, 16.07]), compared to patients without these risk factors.

CONCLUSION

A small subset of OLP patients (1.1%) develop OSCC; therefore, regular follow-up for these patients is recommended. A higher incidence of malignant transformation was found among smokers, alcoholics, and HCV-infected patients; however, these associations should be further investigated.

The Association of Thyroid Disease and Oral Lichen Planus: A Literature Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to systemically evaluate the association between oral lichen planus (OLP) and thyroid disease.

METHOD

Eleven electronic databases were searched for any clinical study published up until August 2016 that explored an association between OLP and thyroid disease, complemented with manual searching. The titles and abstracts of all studies identified from the electronic searches were then assessed independently to determine inclusion of the study. The population of interest was patients with OLP, and the exposure was the presence of thyroid disease in OLP patients. Statistical analyses were conducted using Review Manager 5.2. The odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to evaluate the association between OLP and thyroid disease.

RESULTS

Eight studies were included for review, and of these, four case-control studies were included in the final meta-analysis. The mean Newcastle-Ottawa Scale score evaluating the methodological quality of the four studies was 6.5. The OR was 2.10 (95% CI: 1.47-3.01), indicating a statistically significant difference in the prevalence of thyroid disease between the OLP and control groups. Heterogeneity was satisfactory (I² = 0%, <25%). An approximately symmetrical funnel plot suggested no obvious publication bias. Two articles showed a higher correlation between OLP and hypothyroidism (OR 1.83, 95% CI: 1.16-2.89), with satisfactory heterogeneity (I² = 0%, <25%).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis indicated a significantly high prevalence of thyroid disease among OLP patients compared with controls, suggesting that routine screening for thyroid disease could be beneficial to OLP patients. However, due to the small number of studies included, further studies are needed to confirm the results.

Vulvovaginal gingival lichen planus: report of two cases and review of literature

PURPOSE

Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease of skin and mucous membranes. Approximately 20% of women with oral lichen planus develops lesions in the genital mucosa. In 1982, Pelisse described a special form of lichen planus (LP), which consists of a triad of symptoms: vulval, vaginal and gingival (VVG)-LP lesions. Aim of the present report is to report two new cases and review the international literature.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Two cases of VVG-LP are reported and a review of recent literature is performed.

RESULTS

The onset of erosive or ulcerative mouth lesions may precede or follow by months or even years the onset of vulvovaginal lesions. Vaginal agglutination is associated with the postmenopausal state in conjunction with a dermatologic condition. Intra-lesional corticosteroids have a role in localized chronic ulceration, while systemic therapies such as corticosteroids, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, hydroxychloroquine, ciclosporin, methotrexate, retinoids, thalidomide and photo chemotherapy have been used in more severe cases with varying success.

CONCLUSIONS

VVG-LP is rather a rare condition and has been documented in the literature mainly in the form of case reports. Lack of a precise diagnostic criteria of VVG-LP depends on the specialists.