Oral lichen planus

Overview

Oral lichen planus (LIE-kun PLAY-nus) is an ongoing (chronic) inflammatory condition that affects mucous membranes inside your mouth. Oral lichen planus may appear as white, lacy patches; red, swollen tissues; or open sores. These lesions may cause burning, pain or other discomfort.

Oral lichen planus can't be passed from one person to another. The disorder occurs when the immune system mounts an attack against cells of the oral mucous membranes for unknown reasons (autoimmune disorder).

Symptoms can usually be managed, but people who have oral lichen planus need regular monitoring because they may be at risk of developing mouth cancer in the affected areas.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Diagnostic expertise. At Mayo Clinic, testing of tissue samples (biopsy) is done routinely for oral lichen planus. The testing involves special microscopic tests and pathologists with special training in skin diseases (dermatopathologists). Mayo Clinic has the ability to perform complex pathology testing, if needed.
• Experience. Each year, Mayo Clinic doctors diagnose and treat hundreds of people with oral lichen planus.
• Comprehensive care. Lichen planus can affect other mucous membranes, including the esophagus, genital areas and eyes. Mayo Clinic specialists work together to manage any complications of your oral lichen planus.

Mayo Clinic: Answers you can trust

At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution that reinvests all earnings into improving medical practice, research and education. We're constantly involved in innovation and medical research, finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life. Your doctor or someone on your medical team is likely involved in research related to your condition.

Our patients tell us that the quality of their interactions, our attention to detail and the efficiency of their visits mean health care — and trusted answers — like they've never experienced.

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