A Descriptive Study of Clinico-histopathological Features of Lichen Planus

Abstract

Background: Lichen planus is an idiopathic subacute or chronic inflammatory disease of the skin, mucous membranes and nails. We studied the clinicopathological profile of lichen planus in patients came to SMIMER hospital at Surat. Methods: A total of 50 cases of clinically diagnosed lichen planus samples were included. Clinical features like age, sex, type of lichen planus, location were recorded in the case record form. Histological features of lichen planus were studied. Results: Of the total 50 cases studied, Idiopathic Lichen Planus (76%) constituted the commonest type. The other types were Hypertrophic Lichen Planus (12%), followed by Lichen Planus Pigmentosus (8%), Lichen Planopilaris (2%) and Lichen Planus Pemphigoides (2%).21-30 years is the commonest age group affected, Female preponderance in incidence was seen (1.38:1). Lower limb was the commonest site of involvement. Conclusion: In cases with Lichen Planus, majority of the patients presented with violaceous to erythematous plaque, papule, and hyperpigmented plaque over the extremities. The histopathological examination showed hyperkeratosis, irregular acanthosis, saw toothed rete ridges and hypergranulosis, basal cell vacuolization, max joseph space and civatte bodies. Dermoepidermal junction showed band like infiltrate. Dermis showed melanin incontinence, perifollicular and perivascular inflammation. In the present study of 50 cases, 90% (45 cases) showed positive clinicopathological correlation, which emphasizes that histopathological examination, should be done in conjunction with clinical data to arrive at specific and final diagnosis of Lichen Planus lesions. This will help to reduce morbidity in patients with administration of timely and appropriate treatment, based on the histopathological diagnosis.