Oral lichen planus

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Introduction Signs and symptoms Causes When to seek medical advice

Screening and diagnosis Complications Treatment Self-care

Introduction

Oral lichen planus is an inflammatory condition affecting the lining of the mouth. It occurs most often on the inside of the cheeks, but can affect the gums, tongue, lips and other parts of the mouth. Occasionally oral lichen planus involves the throat or the esophagus.

It usually begins during midlife, between ages 45 and 60. But oral lichen planus can occur at any age, although it rarely affects children. Women are affected twice as often as men are. The condition appears to be related to lichen planus that occurs on the skin. Many people with oral lichen planus also develop lichen planus on the skin or other mucous membranes.

An initial episode of oral lichen planus may last for weeks or months, and recurrences may continue over many years. Oral lichen planus isn't an infectious disease and isn't contagious. But people with persistent mouth sores (lesions) are at increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma — a form of skin cancer. In these cases, a doctor may advise regular examinations to monitor any changes in the mouth. It's also important to stop any tobacco use because tobacco raises the risk of squamous cell carcinoma.

NEXT:

Signs and symptoms