Oral Lichen Planus
Oral Lichen Planus: What Is It?
Oral lichen planus is a common inflammatory skin condition that affects the lining of the mouth. It is usually caused by an immune system reaction, but the exact cause is unknown. Symptoms of oral lichen planus include white patches on the inside of the cheeks, tongue, gums, or lips; painful sores or ulcers, and red or purple patches inside of the mouth. Treatment may include topical medication or steroid injection, depending on the severity of the condition.
Causes and Risk Factors
The cause of oral lichen planus is still unknown, but medical professionals believe it may be due to an immune system reaction. Risk factors associated with oral lichen planus include:
- Smoking
- Exposure to certain medications
- Certain dental materials
- HIV/AIDS
- Viral infections
Symptoms
The main symptom of oral lichen planus is white patches in the mouth. The patches may be raised or flat and they may be itchy or painful. Other symptoms include:
- Red or purple patches
- Ulcers that form in the mouth
- Scalloped border around the patches
- Pain with eating and/or drinking
- Difficulty swallowing
Diagnosis and Treatment
Oral lichen planus is usually diagnosed through a detailed physical examination and medical history. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may include topical medication, steroid injections, or oral medications. For severe cases, surgery may be required.
Prevention
The exact cause of oral lichen planus is still unknown, so there is no way to prevent it entirely. However, some people may be able to decrease their risk for the condition by avoiding certain medications, dental materials, and smoking.
