ORAL LICHEN PLANUS IN THE LOWER LIP: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Introduction: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a relatively common chronic mucocutaneous disease with unknown etiology, which may be associated with a cell-mediated immune response. It is characterized by the presence of symmetrical and bilateral lesions or multiple lesions, mainly affecting the buccal mucosa, tongue and gingiva. The most commonly reported clinical forms are reticular, erosive, papular, plaque, atrophic and bullous. Objective: To report an unusual clinical case of OLP in the lower lip. Case Report: Male patient, 54 years old, attended the Naval Hospital Dental Service in the city of Natal, complaining of a white lesion on his lower lip. On examination, we observed a white and flat lesion with a rough surface, showing areas of striations. The possible clinical diagnoses of the lesions were reticular lichen planus and leukoplakia. Incisional biopsy was performed and microscopic examination revealed oral mucosa lined by orthokeratinized stratified squamous epithelium, showing hydropic degeneration on the entire basal layer. The underlying lamina propria consisted of fibrous tissue, with lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrate in the sub-epithelial layers. Based on the histopathological characteristics, the lesion was diagnosed as OLP. Conclusion: Considering that OLP is a relatively common disease and has variable clinical manifestations, as evidenced in this report, we emphasize the importance of knowledge regarding this entity, in order to provide a correct diagnosis. DESCRIPTORS: Oral, Lichen Planus. Oral, Pathology. Oral, Surgery.