Comparative evaluation of oral corticosteroids versus low molecular weight heparin in the treatment of lichen planus

Abstract

<p class="abstract"><strong>Background:</strong> Lichen planus (LP) is an immunologically mediated inflammatory disorder involving the skin, nails, hair follicles and mucous membranes. Though several drugs and phototherapy are tried and mentioned in the literature, dermatologists are still depending on corticosteroids, which have various serious side effects on long term usage. Thus, in search for an alternative therapy, the present study is conducted to compare the efficacy of systemic corticosteroids and low dose low molecular weight heparin in management of lichen planus.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Methods:</strong> 60 patients with biopsy proven LP were selected and divided randomly into two groups with 30 patients each. Group 1 was treated with oral corticosteroids and group 2 was treated with low molecular weight heparin for 8 weeks. Follow up was done for a period of 6 months, at monthly intervals in all patients and any relapses if any were noted.<strong></strong></p><p class="abstract"><strong>Results:</strong> 60 patients with biopsy proven LP were selected and divided randomly into two groups with 30 patients each. Group 1 was treated with oral corticosteroids and group 2 was treated with low molecular weight heparin for 8 weeks. Follow up was done for a period of 6 months, at monthly intervals in all patients and any relapses if any were noted.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Conclusions:</strong> Low dose enoxaparin in the treatment of lichen planus could be considered as an alternative to oral corticosteroids because of equal efficacy and fewer side effects.</p>