Lichen planus and cicatricial conjunctivitis: disease course and response to therapy of 11 patients

Abstract

Background: Lichen planus is an autoimmune, inflammatory dermatosis of unknown cause that affects the skin and mucous membranes.

Objective: The aim of this study was to report the clinical features and response to therapy in a series of patients with ocular lichen planus.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed to identify patients with ocular lichen planus. Information about clinical presentation, treatment, and therapeutic response was extracted from the medical records.

Results: Eleven patients with ocular lichen planus were identified. The diagnosis was confirmed histologically for 10 patients. Nine patients were women. The average time from onset of ocular symptoms to diagnosis was 4.1 years. Eight patients had mucous membrane involvement at other sites. Disease was well controlled in eight patients.

Conclusion: Lichen planus should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cicatricial conjunctivitis, especially when severe lichen planus is noted at other sites.