p53 as a neoplastic biomarker in patients with erosive and plaque like forms of oral lichen planus.

AIM Unstimulated whole salivary p53 was assessed in patients suffering from erosive and plaque-like form of oral lichen planus (OLP). MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighteen patients with erosive form, 17 patients suffering from plaque-like form and 38 noninvolvement subjects were enrolled. The unstimulated whole saliva p53 level was assayed by ELISA. RESULTS The mean concentration of salivary p53 was significantly higher in patients with plaque-like form compared to both patients with erosive form and the control group. CONCLUSION We conclude that plaque like form of OLP is important in view of the potential for malignancy and is not safety form. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE It seems that all forms of OLP must be considered accurately, should be followed up with biannual examinations, and if possible, assessment of salivary p53 every year.