Antimalarial Drugs for the Treatment of Oral Erosive Lichen Planus.

BACKGROUND

Treatment of oral erosive lichen planus is considered a therapeutic challenge. Various systemic and topical agents aimed at controlling the symptoms, rather than curing the lesions, have been used with varying results.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the response to treatment with antimalarial drugs in patients with oral erosive lichen planus.

METHODS

Eight patients diagnosed with oral erosive lichen planus were treated with antimalarial agents. The first clinical evaluation was made after a month of treatment and then every 2-3 months. Baseline ophthalmologic examinations were performed, and laboratory values were monitored before and during treatment.

RESULTS

All studied patients who had previously been resistant to other treatments responded favorably. Pain relief and reduced erythema and erosions were observed after of a mean of 2.4 months.

CONCLUSION

Antimalarials may be useful for the treatment of oral erosive lichen planus. They are easily administered and affordable, with few adverse effects.