Lichen planus is a chronic disorder affecting skin, hair, nails and mucosal membranes (genitalia and mouth). It can affect any race and any age, but is more common between the ages of 30 and 70. Lichen planus is thought to be associated with an abnormal immune response, although the original antigen remains unclear. A number of factors are associated with lichen planus.
Family History
Some cases of lichen planus do appear to have a genetic basis, although the specific genes are yet to be determined. Those with lichen planus and a family history appear often to be younger on diagnosis, and have an increased tendency for relapse.
Hypersensitivity
A number of drugs have been associated with lichen planus itself, or exacerbation of the disease.These are drugs such antihypertensives, oral hypoglycemics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antimalarials, gold salts and others. Lichen planus in the mouth has been associated with sensitivity to dental materials such as amalgam.
Liver Disease
In a 2010 article published in "Oral Diseases," Lodi and colleagues studied the relationship between lichen planus and liver disease, particularly hepatitis C. They found patients who had lichen planus had a greater risk of being positive for hepatitis C.
References
- "Journal of American Academy of Dermatology": Familial lichen planus. More frequent than previously suggested? Kofoed ML & Wantzin GL. 1985 13 (1) July
- "Scandinavian Journal of Dental Research": Amalgam-related oral lichenin reaction. Lind P et al. 1986; 94 448-451
- "Oral disease": Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Lichen Planus: a Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis. Lodi G et al. 2010 Apr 19
