About this Research Topic
Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is a chronic mucocutaneous, immune-mediated, and inflammatory disorder (T-cell abnormality) that commonly affects middle-aged patients (> 40 years), especially females. OLP frequently involves buccal mucosa, tongue, and the gingiva (as desquamative gingivitis). The clinical presentation is multifarious and often demonstrates hyperkeratotic striae, plaques, or erosions and bullae, usually in a bilateral pattern: a hallmark diagnostic feature. Many risk factors are associated with its pathogenesis, ranging from several drugs, viruses like hepatitis C, local factors like microbial plaque-calculus and dental materials, genetic polymorphisms, and emotional disturbances, including stress-anxiety-depression. The psychological triggers can significantly impact the evolution of OLP, leading to exacerbations and remissions; however, these are aspects that have not been widely studied. As OLP is also a potentially malignant oral disorder there is a need for prompt management and curative strategy to prevent cancerous transformation. The role of stress reduction approaches is promising but vastly under-explored. Non-reticular OLP sub-types, as well as the adverse reactions of systemic/local administration of corticosteroids or other immunomodulators used as treatment options, can pose a significant concern as they strongly affect patients' quality of life. There are also speculations about the potential role of probiotic intervention due to their microbiota balancing and immuno-modulatory actions. Another aspect worthy of more discussion is the application of herbal therapeutics.
This research topic aims to expand the knowledge base about this clinical enigma, its multi-dimensional risk factors, biology, and emerging treatment modalities. The research topic includes, but is not limited to: in vitro cell models, animal experiments, and clinical studies.
This research topic aims to expand the knowledge base about this clinical enigma, its multi-dimensional risk factors, biology, and emerging treatment modalities. The research topic includes, but is not limited to: in vitro cell models, animal experiments, and clinical studies.
Keywords: Oral lichen planus, auto-immunity, in-vitro studies, animal models, clinical studies, treatment, herbal supplements, stress-reduction approaches
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