Oral lichen planus

Free

E-Newsletters

Subscribe to receive the latest updates on health topics. About our newsletters

  • Housecall
  • Alzheimer's caregiving
  • Living with cancer

Complications

By Mayo Clinic staff

Cancer
Oral lichen planus may increase the risk of oral cancers, particularly a type known as squamous cell carcinoma. Take the following steps for cancer screening and prevention.

  • Get oral cancer screenings annually or as directed by your doctor.
  • If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Talk to your doctor to see if you should avoid alcohol completely.
  • If you use any tobacco products, quit. Talk to your doctor if you need assistance ending a tobacco habit.

Esophageal problems
Lichen planus lesions in the esophagus may result in a narrowing of the esophagus or the formation of tightened, ring-like bands in the esophagus that can make swallowing difficult.

References
  1. Lichen planus. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec10/ch116/ch116g.html. Accessed May 21, 2010.
  2. Eisen D. The clinical manifestations and treatment of oral lichen planus. Dermatologic Clinics. 2003;21:79.
  3. Lehman JS, et al. Lichen planus. International Journal of Dermatology. 2009;48:682.
  4. Farhi D, et al. Pathophysiology, etiologic factors, and clinical management of oral lichen planus. Part I: Facts and controversies. Clinics in Dermatology. 2010;28:100.
  5. Gibson LE (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. May 31, 2010.
  6. Psoriasis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Psoriasis/default.asp. Accessed April 18, 2010.
DS00784 Sept. 21, 2011

© 1998-2012 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "EmbodyHealth," "Enhance your life," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.

Print Share Reprints

Advertisement


Text Size: smaller largerlarger