VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 are expressed by Langerhans cells, macrophages and endothelial cells in oral lichen planus.

Expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1, CD54) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1, CD106) was examined in oral lichen planus (OLP) and normal oral mucosa (NOM). Immunoperoxidase staining showed ICAM-1 expression by vascular endothelium in all biopsies of OLP and NOM whereas endothelial VCAM-1 staining was found in 2/7 NOM and 8/9 OLP. In the lamina propria of NOM occasional cells were ICAM-1 or VCAM-1 positive, and virtually no staining of intraepithelial dendritic cells was seen for either marker. Intraepithelial dendritic cells stained for ICAM-1 in 7/9 and VCAM-1 in 4/9 OLP biopsies. Double immunofluorescence showed dual labelling of Langerhans cells (LC) with CD1a and VCAM-1 in a further 5/12 cases of OLP, but there was no such staining in four NOM. This is the first report of LC staining with VCAM-1. Induction of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 on LC and macrophages in OLP suggests these cells are activated and may contribute to the pathogenesis of OLP by presenting antigen to infiltrating lymphocytes.