The clinical manifestations and treatment of oral lichen planus

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is an inflammatory disease that affects approximately 1% to 2% of the population. Unlike cutaneous lichen planus, which typically resolves within several years after onset, OLP is chronic and often lifelong. A significant number of patients with OLP develop erythematous and erosive lesions that result in varying degrees of discomfort. Topical corticosteroids remain the mainstay of therapy, although a diverse group of topical and systemic agents can be used for patients with the more severe forms of the disease. Until the precise risk for malignant transformation is determined, patients with OLP should be monitored carefully long term.