A Rare Case of Oral Erosive Lichen Planus in Pediatrics

Abstract

Oral erosive lichen planus is a chronic painful condition affecting mucosal surfaces. Erosive lichen planus causes painful and persistant ulcers which rarely show spontaneous remissions and heals with scarring. Erosive lichen planus mainly affects adults, particularly women and is rare in children. The pathogenesis is mainly discussed as a psychosomatic disorder and its management being a challenge. Topical steroids constitute the mainstay of treatment but oral retinoids, systemic steroids, immunosuppressive drugs and even extracorporeal photochemotherapy can be necessary for treating severe forms. We report a rare case of oral erosive lichen planus at an unusual site and age in a 9 year old child and the role of oral diagnostician in its diagnosis and management.