What is erosive lichen planus?
Erosive lichen planus is a rare form of lichen planus that can last a long time. It causes painful ulcers to develop in the mouth and in the genital areas of both males and females. In some cases, long-term erosive lichen planus can increase the chance of some types of cancer developing.
What is lichen planus PPT?
Lichen Planus Lichen planus (LP) is a disease of the skin and/or mucous membranes that resembles lichens. It is thought to be the result of an autoimmune process with an unknown initial trigger.
What is the difference between lichen planus and erosive lichen planus?
Erosive lichen planus (ELP) is a variant of lichen planus which involves chronic and painful ulceration of the skin and mucosal surfaces. ELP is thought to be the result of autoimmune damage of the basal cell layer, which is mediated by activated CD8 T lymphocytes.
How is erosive lichen planus diagnosed?
The diagnosis of erosive lichen planus is often made by the typical history and clinical appearance. A biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and to look for cancer. Histopathological signs of a ‘lichenoid tissue reaction’ affecting the epidermis (the skin cell layer) are supportive.
What is an erosive lesion?
Erosion is characterized by the partial loss of the epithelium, with the basement membrane left intact. Erosions can be subtle, shallow lesions with loss of only the upper layers of cells and may be difficult to identify.
What is the main cause of lichen planus?
The cause of lichen planus is usually not known, although possible causes include: Hepatitis C, a virus that attacks your liver. Certain medicines, including some drugs used to treat high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and malaria. Reactions to metal fillings in your teeth.
Is there a cure for erosive lichen planus?
Oral lichen planus is a chronic condition. There is no cure, so the treatment focuses on helping severe lesions heal and reducing pain or other discomfort. Your doctor will monitor your condition to determine the appropriate treatment or stop treatment as necessary.
What is the best treatment for erosive lichen planus?
Calcineurin inhibitors such as pimecrolimus cream or tacrolimus ointment have proven very effective for some patients with erosive lichen planus. These are applied once or twice daily for several weeks. Treatment may be repeated as required.