Lichen planus associated with topical beta-blocker therapy.

PURPOSE: We studied two clinical cases that demonstrated an association between topical beta-blocker therapy and lichen planus.

METHODS

Two patients developed skin lesions while on topical beta-blocker therapy for open-angle glaucoma. They underwent skin biopsies to determine the origin of the lesions. They were subsequently treated and followed up clinically.

RESULTS

Skin biopsy specimens from each patient demonstrated infiltrates consistent with a lichenoid drug reaction. The symptoms resolved after discontinuation of the topical beta-blocker therapy. Neither patient developed a recurrence.

CONCLUSION

We suggest that lichen planus is a possible side effect of topical beta-blocker therapy.