Treatment of lichen planus-induced desquamative gingivitis

Introduction: Lichen planus is a mucocutaneouse inflammatory disease. Its complications including the formation of ulcers, irritation and discomfort, and the possibility of malignancy. In previous studies, no definite treatment for desquamative gingivitis due to lichen planus has been reported and different treatments have different results. According to importance of the subject, the main aim of this study was pressenting a special curative method for this disease. Case report: A 45-year-old woman was referred to a dental clinic with a complaint of sorness of her gingiva that was resistant to the routine treatment. The patient was systemically healthy. In the intraoral examination, white and red lesions were observed in the mucous membranes of the cheek and tongue. According to the presence of the lines of wikham, the diagnosis of lichen plan was introduced. The gums also had a desquamative gingivitis. Some calculus and plaque were also seen in the examination. Initially, the presence of dysplasia was role out by coloring Toluidian Blue. The patient was then referred to periodontitist and treated with scaling, root planling and accurate health education. In order to control the lesions in the cheek and tongue, the patient was asked to take a triamcinolone daily and for more resistant gum lesions, apply hydrocortisone ointment twice a day for 5 minutes. The patient was re-examined after one, two and three weeks, and a clear recovery from the first week began and resolved until the third week. Conclusion: Conclusively, the administration of corticosteroids using the Terry method is a suitable method for treating desquamative gingivitis caused by lichen planus.