Randomized pilot study on probiotic effects on recurrent candidiasis in oral lichen planus patients.

Abstract

To study whether probiotic intervention reduces recurrent OC in patients with OLP. Twenty-two patients with symptomatic OLP were enrolled in the double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled intervention study. Lozenges containing Lactobacilli reuteri (DSM 17938 and ATCC PTA 5289) or placebo were dissolved intra-orally three times daily for 16weeks, after which patients were followed up for 36weeks. Mucosal symptoms, VAS pain, OLP severity score, plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI), Candida count/carriage, and OC and/or need for symptomatic treatment were registered. Statistical significance was set at p<.05. No difference was observed between the groups during the intervention or follow-up in terms of recurrent OC (p=.966) or need for symptomatic treatment (p=1.000). There was no difference in terms of Candida count (p=.96) or carriage over time (p=.511). GI decreased in the probiotic group and increased in the placebo group (p=.046). OLP severity score decreased in both groups during the study period (p=.039). Across the entire study period, the placebo group had higher VAS pain score (p=.037). Probiotic intervention did not reduce recurrent OC or Candida count/carriage, but the study experienced recruitment problems, which may have influenced results.