Problems of diagnostics of oral lichen planus

Abstract

Lichen planus is a disease most commonly found in both dermatological and dental practice. The etiology of this dermatosis is not fully understood. As a rule, with lichen planus, the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular, nervous, endocrine and other systems are affected. The disease can develop against the background of strong psychoemotional stress. Differential diagnosis of lichen planus is performed with leukoplakia, autoimmune pemphigus, candidiasis and lupus erythematosus. The authors present their own clinical observation of a patient with a lichen planus of the oral mucosa, in whom a diagnostic error led to the series of unsuccessful hospitalizations, examinations, surgical interventions against the background of a gradual aggravation of the mental state. The interest of this clinical observation is that in the case of diagnosis of lichen planus of the oral mucosa, a complete examination of the skin and all mucous membranes is necessary in order to identify the elements characteristic of this disease. Of particular importance is a biopsy with histological and immunohistochemical examination before the start of therapy. With a prolonged course of the disease, the ineffectiveness of invasive therapies requires timely administration of systemic glucocorticoids to achieve remission. Prolonged and persistent course of lichen planus of the oral mucosa can lead not only to the transformation of the process, but also to the development of psychogenic reactions. The article shows the importance of a tandem between a dermatovenerologist, a dentist and a psychiatrist forthe effective care of patients with lesions of the oral mucosa with lichen planus.