Lichen planus is a long-term disease that affects the mouth with symptoms such as white patches, redness and swelling. It affects the skin, scalp, nails and mucous membranes, causing edema and irritation. This disease is more common in women than in men. It usually occurs in people over the age of 40. However, children and young adults can also get it.
When it occurs in the mouth, vagina and other tissues containing mucous membranes, it takes the form of white patches or painful sores that look like lace. The exact cause of this disease is not known.
It is thought thatviral infection, exposure to allergens, stress or hereditary factors may play a role. In general, even if most of these cases do not show a significant course, you should be aware of this disease, as some rare cases may experience painful wounds.
Causes of Lichen Planus
The main mechanism by which this disease occurs is that defense cells wage war against the skin and mucous membranes. Although this can develop in any person or at any age, there may be a predisposition to the development of this disease in the presence of certain factors. The causes of lichen planus are as follows;
- Genetic causes
- Problems with the immune system
- Hepatitis C virus
- Painkillers
- Some medicines, such as diabetes medicines and antimalarial medicines
- A reaction to metal in your mouth, such as dental fillings
- Injury to your mouth
- Food allergy
- Infection
What are the Symptoms of Lichen Planus?
Symptoms of lichen planus vary according to the area affected by this disease. The first attack of discomfort can generally last for weeks or months. However, this condition may regress on its own within 1-2 years. Despite regression, the condition may recur in general and care should be taken as it may cause color differences in the affected area.
Oral lichen planus usually presents as a (long-lasting) disease and may regress during its course. Symptoms can occur gradually or start suddenly;
- Dryness
- Taste disturbance
- Redness and swelling
- Peeling or blistering
These wounds can burn and be painful. Spicy, salty, acidic, alcoholic, caffeinated drinks can also cause problems. The specialist can diagnose lichen planus by taking a small piece of skin from inside the mouth. This is called a biopsy. Tests must be done in the laboratory to see what the problem is. Blood tests may also be ordered to rule out other conditions.
How is lichen planus diagnosed?
Diagnosis of lichen planus is based on the usual complaints, medical history and physical examination. When necessary, various tests can be used to confirm the diagnosis;
Biopsy Experts can examine whether the cells in the sample carry the characteristic features of lichen planus by taking a small section of the affected skin and examining it under a microscope.
Hepatitis C test: Since it has a triggering characteristic, liquid blood tests can be used to determine whether this condition is the underlying condition.
Allergy tests: Dermatologists can investigate whether these substances are triggers with various allergy tests.
In addition to these examinations, other tests and imaging techniques can be used if the disease affects the esophagus, genitals, ears or the inside of the mouth.
Lichen Planus Treatment
In mild and moderate lichen planus findings, there may be no need for a specific treatment since the disease is unlikely to get better on its own. In cases where the symptoms are disturbing or severe, experts looking for an answer to the question "How do lichen planus spots go away?" prescribe various medications and try to control the situation. It is possible to control the symptoms that occur with various medications to be preferred;
- Corticosteroids (local or short-term systemic)
- Vitamin A derivative medicines
- Antihistamine drugs
- Cream for redness and rash
- Light therapy method
- Other immunosuppressive treatment methods
Although this disease can be uncomfortable, it is generally not considered a risky condition. If you observe symptoms of this disease in yourself or around you, you can go to health institutions and get help from specialist physicians.