3. WHO IS AFFECTED?
Most common in adults
Twice more likely to happen in women than in men
1-2% of the population
All races
4. WHERE DOES IT OCCUR?
Most commonly on the tongue and inside of cheeks
Is also found on gums, throat, esophagus, and
inside of lips
Lichen Planus can also affect the skin of other parts
of the body
5. WHY DOES LICHEN PLANUS OCCUR?
The cause is unknown, but there are certain factors that
trigger it:
-hepatitis C
-other liver diseases
-some flu vaccines
-allergies
-anti-inflammatory drugs
The immune system mounts an attack against cells of
the oral mucous membranes.
Lesions that appear are the result of inflammation
controlled by specific white blood cells called
lymphocytes
6. TREATMENT
Although this disease is difficult to manage, the
doctor will monitor condition, increase/decrease
dosages, change medications, or stop treatment.
Medications and Treatments available:
-corticosteroids (topical, oral, injection)
-retinoids
-nonsteroidal ointments
-addressing the triggers
7. WORK CITED
Sugerman, P. (2010, 10/29). Medscape. Retrieved
from http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1078327-overview
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2011, 09/21) Mayo Clinic.
Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/oral-lichen-
planus/DS00784/DSECTION=symptoms
Cole, G. W. (2010, July 17). Lichen Planus.
Retrieved from
http://www.medicinenet.com/lichen_planus/article.htm
