Differences in the landscape of colonized microorganisms in different oral potentially malignant disorders and squamous cell carcinoma: a multi-group comparative study.

BACKGROUND: The role of microbes in diseases, especially cancer, has garnered significant attention. However, research on the oral microbiota in oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) remains limited. Our study investigates microbial communities in OPMDs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Oral biopsies from19 oral leukoplakia (OLK) patients, 19 proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) patients, 19 oral lichen planus (OLP) patients, and 19 oral lichenoid lesions (OLL) patients were obtained. 15 SCC specimens were also collected from PVL patients. Healthy individuals served as controls, and DNA was extracted from their paraffin-embedded tissues. 2bRAD-M sequencing generated taxonomic profiles. Alpha and beta diversity analyses, along with Linear Discriminant Analysis effect size analysis, were conducted. RESULTS: Our results showed the microbial richness and diversity were significantly different among groups, with PVL-SCC resembling controls, while OLK exhibited the highest richness. Each disease group displayed unique microbial compositions, with distinct dominant bacterial species. Noteworthy alterations during PVL-SCC progression included a decline in Fusobacterium periodonticum and an elevation in Prevotella oris. CONCLUSIONS: Different disease groups exhibited distinct dominant bacterial species and microbial compositions. These findings offer promise in elucidating the underlying mechanisms of this disease.

Association between oral lichen planus and Candida albicans infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

This study examines the potential association between Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) and Candida albicans infection, exploring its potential impact on the development of OLP. A meta-analysis of individual case-control studies was performed, estimating odds ratios (ORs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A quality assessment of the literature was conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Due to considerable heterogeneity in the selected studies, subgroup analyses were performed based on geographical location and recruitment methods. No significant publication bias was detected. A sensitivity analysis validated the robustness of the findings when applying a random-effects model. The meta-analysis included ten studies, comprising 1,124 OLP patients and 1,063 healthy controls. Results indicated a significantly higher detection rate of Candida albicans in OLP patients compared to healthy controls (OR = 1.74, P = 0.003, 95% CI: 1.20, 2.52). Additionally, an increased risk of Candida albicans infection was observed in erosive OLP (E-OLP) patients compared to healthy controls (OR = 3.97, 95% CI: 2.31, 6.84, P < 0.00001). These findings suggest a complex interplay between OLP and Candida albicans, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate the varying susceptibilities among different clinical types of OLP. This study provides novel insights for future research directions and clinical treatment strategies in this field.

Concurrent and prolonged embedded earring at the earlobe as a possible factor of erosive lichen planus.

Key Clinical Message: Embedded earrings in adults have been reported to be a possible cause of erosive oral lichen planus. Abstract: Erosive lichen planus is rare and its cause cannot be determined. Embedded earring in the earlobes is rare clinical presentation in adult. The concurrent nature of these two conditions has not been previously, described in the published literature. Unexpectedly, we removed the earring from the earlobe and successfully treated erosive oral lichen planus. We hypothesized that prolonged embedded earring is a possible factor that induced erosive lichen planus in this case.

Nail Fold Capillaroscopy for Diagnosis of Onychodystrophies: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Nail diseases are often associated with significant physical and psychosocial burden, but diagnosis is challenging due to non-specific clinical and histological findings. Nail fold capillaroscopy has been studied for diagnosis of systemic diseases, but studies on nail diseases are lacking. OBJECTIVE: Our objectives were to characterize and compare capillary changes in a set of nail conditions vs. controls, between nail groups, and based on demographic/clinical criteria. METHODS: This was a prospective cross-sectional study of patients with nail psoriasis, onychomycosis, idiopathic onycholysis, brittle nail syndrome, nail lichen planus, retronychia, other nail conditions, and no nail findings (controls) undergoing capillaroscopy imaging/analysis. RESULTS: Nail psoriasis vs. control patients demonstrated decreased capillary length/density and increased abnormal capillaries, with higher frequency in older, male patients. Onychomycosis was associated with increased meandering capillaries compared to controls, nail psoriasis, and nail lichen planus. Retronychia is associated with increased disorganized polymorphic capillaries compared to controls and onychomycosis. LIMITATIONS: Limitations include small sample size for certain nail conditions and small numbers of nail psoriasis patient with psoriatic arthritis. CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight nailfold capillaroscopy as a potentially quick, cost-effective, and non-invasive imaging modality, as an adjunct for diagnosis and treatment initiation for patients with onychodystrophies.

Anogenital Erosive Lichen Sclerosus in a Male With Multiple Autoimmune Conditions.

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the anogenital region, with a higher prevalence in females and often linked to autoimmunity. This association is not clearly elucidated in males, with LS commonly presenting in uncircumcised males. The most affected areas include the glans penis, prepuce, and coronal sulcus. In this report, we present an 11-year case of treatment-resistant LS in a male patient with an extensive history of autoimmune disorders, manifesting in the intergluteal cleft as a hypertrophic plaque, a rare location. The patient had a complex autoimmune history, including porphyria cutanea tarda, discoid lupus, and Sjogren's syndrome. Histopathological analysis confirmed a diagnosis of erosive LS. Despite numerous treatments, including intralesional corticosteroids and various topicals, the lesion persisted. This case highlights the challenges in managing LS, particularly in uncommon sites and in patients with extensive autoimmune backgrounds. Treatment goals for LS focus on symptom relief, cosmetic improvement, and disease prevention. Although topical corticosteroids are commonly used, systemic options like hydroxychloroquine may be beneficial in resistant cases, although clear guidelines are lacking. Our case underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in addressing LS and its associated autoimmune conditions.

Improvements in Oral Lichen Planus Following Periodontal Treatment in a Patient With Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Case Report.

Oral lichen planus (OLP), a chronic inflammatory mucocutaneous disease, is known to be associated with liver disease. Additionally, associations between periodontal disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), as well as cardiovascular disease, have been reported. Herein, we report a case of a 68-year-old male who presented at a dental clinic with OLP, which showed signs of improvement after treatment for periodontal disease. The patient had hepatic dysfunction and steatosis, which was complicated by angina pectoris. He was diagnosed with OLP and periodontal disease. Subsequent close examination of his liver led to a diagnosis of MASLD. Treatment for periodontal disease and enhanced oral self-care improved the OLP lesions and liver function values. This case demonstrates that collaboration between different medical disciplines can significantly impact patient health.

The impact of lipidome on five inflammatory skin diseases: a Mendelian randomization study.

OBJECTIVE: Two-sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR) was employed to examine the association between lipidome and five inflammatory skin diseases. METHOD: To evaluate the association between various molecular subtypes of lipidome and the risk of five inflammatory skin diseases, we analyzed a comprehensive GWAS dataset comprising 179 lipidome. The Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization (TSMR) method was employed to investigate causal relationships. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy were assessed using Cochran's Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, and MR-PRESSO global test. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the influence of individual single nucleotide polymorphisms on Mendelian Randomization study. RESULTS: Using 179 serum lipidome as exposures and five common inflammatory skin diseases as outcomes, we investigated their associations in this large-scale study. Our findings reveal significant impacts of glycerophospholipids, glycerolipids, and sphingomyelins on inflammatory skin diseases. Glycerophospholipids were protective against pemphigus but predominantly posed risks for other inflammatory skin diseases. Specifically, phosphatidylcholine (16:0_0:0) exhibited the most significant risk association with lichen planus (OR = 1.25, 95% CI 1.11-1.40, P < 0.001). Conversely, glycerolipids showed no effect on lichen planus but were protective against pemphigus while potentially posing risks for other conditions. Triacylglycerol (46:2) showed the most substantial risk association with vitiligo (OR = 1.99, 95% CI 1.35-2.93, P < 0.001). Furthermore, sphingomyelins had no effect on atopic dermatitis but posed potential risks for other inflammatory skin diseases. Sphingomyelin (d40:1) notably emerged as a significant risk factor for pemphigus (OR = 1.91, 95% CI 1.37-2.66, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study has elucidated the potential harmful effects of glycerophospholipids, glycerolipids, and sphingomyelins on inflammatory skin diseases, while also providing valuable insights for future research into the pathophysiology, prevention and treatment of these conditions.

A Case of Oral Lichen Planus Preceding the Diagnosis of Good Syndrome.

Good syndrome (GS) is a rare condition characterized by thymoma and immune deficiency with a poorly understood mechanism in which patients have reduced immunoglobulin levels and circulating B-cells along with impaired T-cell function. GS is often accompanied by autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, and in this report, we present a case of refractory oral lichen planus (OLP) preceding the diagnosis of GS. In this case, a patient with a history of OLP was diagnosed with GS and common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) following thymectomy and was treated with intravenous immunoglobin (IVIG). Additionally, he was found to have pure red cell aplasia managed with cyclosporine. His oral symptoms worsened, and he presented to dermatology. Treatment was initiated with topical clobetasol and tacrolimus for his OLP, and fluconazole was started for concomitant oral candidiasis. His OLP has remained under satisfactory control with this regimen; however, he requires close surveillance for malignancy given his increased risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) with immunosuppression and active OLP. Although rare, clinicians should be aware of GS and its association with erosive OLP along with the heightened risk of infection in these patients.

Budesonide Orodispersible Tablet for the Treatment of Refractory Esophageal Lichen Planus.

Esophageal lichen planus is an uncommon but highly morbid condition where effective treatments are limited. Diagnosis may be challenging and requires a high degree of clinical suspicion considering endoscopic, histopathological, esophageal, and extraesophageal manifestations. We describe a severe case of esophageal lichen planus and recurrent esophageal stricture that was refractory to acid suppression, local and systemic steroid formulations, and dilatation. We present the first reported use of budesonide orodispersible tablet for this condition, including the excellent clinical, endoscopic, and histopathological response.

Pathogenic relevance of antibodies against desmoglein 3 in patients with oral lichen planus.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a T cell driven disorder that significantly impairs patients' quality of life. Previous reports suggest that both cellular and humoral activities against desmoglein (dsg) 1 and 3 may be involved in OLP pathogenesis. Here, we aim to analyze the frequency of occurrence and pathological significance of anti-dsg antibodies in a large cohort of OLP patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: OLP patients were screened for anti-dsg antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in three tertiary referral centers. OLP sera with anti-dsg antibodies were further analyzed by Western blot and dispase-based keratinocyte dissociation assay (DDA) to identify the targeted dsg ectodomains and to assess their pathogenicity. RESULTS: Of 151-screened individuals with OLP, only four patients (2.6%) with erosive OLP showed serum IgG against dsg1/3. Western blot analysis with recombinant dsg3 ectodomains revealed preferential recognition of the extracellular domain 5. By DDA with spontaneously immortalized human keratinocytes, none of the sera from these four patients induced acantholysis. CONCLUSIONS: Activation of humoral immunity occurs prevalently in patients with erosive OLP, probably due to epitope spreading. OLP serum antibodies are unable to induce loss of intercellular adhesion in vitro, strongly suggesting that they are not disease causing but rather an epiphenomenon.

Comparative study of the efficacy of azathioprine, dapsone, and NB-UVB phototherapy as steroid-sparing modalities in generalised lichen planus.

Background Generalised lichen planus (GLP) is a chronic disease with an overall prevalence of 1% requiring longer treatment. Limited studies are available on GLP and its treatment in the literature, unlike oral lichen planus. Objective To determine the best steroid-sparing treatment modality for GLP by comparing the efficacy, response, safety, side effects, and remission with azathioprine, dapsone, and narrowband UV-B (NB-UVB) along with their impact on itching severity and life quality. Methodology Open-label, prospective, comparative, interventional study on generalised lichen planus patients treated with systemic steroids along with one of three steroid-sparing modalities. Totally 90 patients were studied including 30 patients each who received azathioprine (Group A), dapsone (Group B), and narrow band UVB (NB-UVB) (Group C), respectively, for 16 weeks. Itch severity index (ISI) and Dermatology life quality Index (DLQI) were assessed at baseline and week 24. All patients received oral prednisolone until there was no more active disease. Response was assessed in terms of occurrence of new lesions, flattening of lesions, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and grading of lesions two weeks once for 6 months followed by six months of follow-up after treatment completion. Results Females outnumbered males in all 3 groups. Mean patient ages (34, 38, and 34) and the presence of one or more co-morbidities (50%, 42.3%, 37.5%) in Groups A, B, and C, respectively, were comparable. ISI and DLQI improvement at 24 weeks were greatest with NB-UVB, followed by azathioprine and dapsone in that order; the differences in improvement between groups showed high statistical significance. At week 24, occurrence of new lesions (0%, 0%, 3.8%), flattening (100% - all groups), PIH (100% - all groups), grade 3 lesions i.e. poor response, resolution of 20-50% of lesions (7.1%, 11.5%, 0%), grade 2 lesions i.e. partial response, resolution of 50-90% of lesions (35.7%, 76.9%, 8.3%) and grade 1 lesions i.e. complete response, resolution of >90% lesions (57.1%, 11.5%, 91.3%) were noted in Groups A, B and C, respectively; the differences in the extent of resolution of lesions between the groups were highly significant statistically. Remission was seen in 100%, 76.9%, and 87.5% in Groups A, B, and C, respectively, after six months. Limitations The sample size was small. Only 3 treatment options were compared in this study but many more options have been used for lichen planus. Long term follow-up is required. Conclusions NB-UVB with oral steroids showed a better response in terms of improvement in DLQI, ISI, disease control, and side effects than azathioprine and dapsone. Azathioprine showed a faster response and more prolonged remission. Dapsone showed poor response with multiple side effects.

Widespread purplish-red plaques with plasma cell infiltrate: A rare type of lichen planus.

Diseases in which cutaneous plasma cell infiltrates predominate are rare and usually of unknown etiology, including those that transition from benign to malignant, such as cutaneous plasmacytosis, multicentric Castleman disease, and extramedullary plasmacytoma. These diseases may present as purplish, reddish-brown cutaneous plaques or nodules. Here, we report an exceptional case of lichen planus (LP) in which the patient had classic histopathological features, but the infiltrating inflammatory cells were plasma cells with restricted light chain expression. The patient presented with severe rashes, including purplish-red plaques and nodules, erythema, and erosions in the palmoplantar area, verrucous hyperplasia of the oral mucosa, and anonychia of the toes. These findings suggest a possible role of plasma cells with restricted light chain expression in the LP. Clinicians should closely follow patients for changes in their rash, perform repeat biopsies if necessary, and regularly conduct multisystemic evaluations.

An overview of S100 proteins and their functions in skin homeostasis, interface dermatitis conditions and other skin pathologies.

S100 proteins comprise a family of structurally related proteins that are calcium-sensitive. S100 proteins have been found to play various roles in regulation of cell apoptosis, cell proliferation and differentiation, cell migration and invasion, energy metabolism, calcium homeostasis, protein phosphorylation, anti-microbial activity and inflammation in a variety of cell types. While the specific function of many S100 proteins remains unknown, some of the S100 proteins serve as disease biomarkers as well as possible therapeutic targets in skin diseases. Interface dermatitis (ID) is a histopathological term that covers many different skin conditions including cutaneous lupus erythematosus, lichen planus, and dermatomyositis. These pathologies share similar histological features, which include basal cell vacuolization and lymphocytic infiltration at the dermal-epidermal junction. In this review, we summarize how the S100 protein family contributes to both homeostatic and inflammatory processes in the skin. We also highlight the role of S100 proteins in neuronal signalling, describing how this might contribute to neuroimmune interactions in ID and other skin pathologies. Last, we discuss what is known about the S100 family proteins as both biomarkers and potential treatment targets in specific pathologies.

Lichenoid Drug Eruption Secondary to Adalimumab: A Case Report.

Adalimumab, an anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), is widely prescribed for many autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as hidradenitis suppurative, psoriasis, etc. We report a case of lichenoid drug eruption secondary to adalimumab, a rare side effect, in a 62-year-old female with ulcerative colitis. The skin eruption appeared two weeks after initiating adalimumab. A skin biopsy was taken, and the histopathological findings correlated with a lichenoid drug eruption. Although rare, drug-induced lichen planus has been associated with adalimumab. Early recognition and a high index of suspicion are key in the prompt management of these cases. The discontinuation of adalimumab must be carefully weighed against its therapeutic benefits, as the discontinuation might trigger a severe form of inflammation in the primary autoimmune disease being treated. Extreme caution, early intervention, and a multidisciplinary approach are best for the overall well-being and optimal care of the individual.

Development and validation of the Oral Lichen Planus-Disease Activity Scale: a novel tool for comprehensive clinical assessment.

OBJECTIVE: To develop and validate the Oral Lichen Planus-Disease Activity Scale (OLP-DAS) for assessing overall disease activity of OLP. METHODS: The OLP-DAS was created by refining the Thongprasom criteria, incorporating inputs from the literature and expert review, and integrating pain assessment. Content validity was evaluated in a virtual meeting with 8 Oral Medicine specialists. Reliability and validity of the final version were examined. Seventeen OLP subjects were assessed for disease activity by 10 investigators using the OLP-DAS, Oral Disease Severity Score (ODSS), OLP-Investigator Global Assessment (OLP-IGA), and Reticular-Erythema-Ulcerative (REU) scale. Convergent validity was assessed by rating 160 OLP subjects using the OLP-DAS, ODSS, and OLP-IGA. Inter-rater and intra-rater reliability, along with convergent validity, were analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and Spearman's rank correlation coefficients (rs). RESULTS: The final OLP-DAS achieved excellent content validity indices. Inter-rater and intra-rater ICCs for total OLP-DAS scores were 0.93 and 0.96, respectively. Total OLP-DAS scores exhibited strong positive correlations with the ODSS and OLP-IGA (rs = 0.94 and rs = 0.76; P < 0.001, respectively). The OLP Severity Index (OLP-SI), a component of the OLP-DAS, showed very strong positive correlations with OLP disease activity parameters of the ODSS (rs = 0.90; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The OLP-DAS is a valid and reliable clinician-reported outcome measure (CROM) for evaluating OLP disease activity. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The OLP-DAS, as a standardized CROM for OLP, is valuable for both routine clinical assessments and research applications.

Coexistence of severe peripheral ulcerative keratitis and lichen planus: case report.

Introduction and importance: Ocular involvement in lichen planus is highly uncommon, primarily affecting the eyelids, conjunctiva, and less frequently, the cornea. Peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK), a rare subtype form of corneal lichen planus, has been reported only once in the literature. Case presentation: The authors report details of a 34-year-old man with confirmed cutaneous lichen planus who developed severe PUK, a rare ocular manifestation of lichen planus. Despite initial worsening with corticosteroids, successful resolution of PUK was achieved with topical Cyclosporin and azathioprine over 2 months but with a final visual acuity limited to light perception. Clinical discussion: To the best of our knowledge, very rare cases have been reported of the coexistence of severe PUK and lichen planus. Lichen planus should be considered in any case of PUKs associated with cutaneous-mucosal manifestations cyclosporin and azathioprine are crucial for effective management and favorable outcomes in such cases. Conclusion: This case aims to show the importance of dermatological examination in the presence of any peripheral ulcerative keratitis. It also sheds light on the therapeutic difficulties and the prognosis of this rare form of ocular lichen planus.

Idiopathic Eruptive Macular Pigmentation with Papillomatosis: A Common but Underdiagnosed Entity.

Idiopathic Eruptive Macular Pigmentation (IEMP) is an uncommon and possibly underdiagnosed dermatosis. It manifests as asymptomatic pigmented macules over the face, trunk and proximal extremities among children and adolescents. Degos et al. first documented this condition in 1978, unveiling its distinct characteristics. The macules, initially dark brown-black, naturally diminish over several months to years, with no lasting pigmentation or scarring. In this report, we highlight the case of a 14-year-old girl displaying all the distinctive traits of IEMP.