No lesion? No problem: case of oesophageal lichen planus in a patient without any cutaneous lesions. Issue 3 (17th March 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Arshad, Tamoore; Fleckenstein, Katarina; Sardana, Nitin; Scudera, Peter L
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 13:Issue 3(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-03-17
• Subjects: endoscopy -- oesophagus -- gastroenterology; Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2019-232375
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : Oesophageal lichen planus (ELP) is an uncommon presentation of mucocutaneous lichen planus. Due to its rare nature, it can often be misdiagnosed. As such, there can be a significant delay between symptom onset and diagnosis. ELP drastically reduces quality of life secondary to the severe dysphagia and odynophagia that typically accompany this pathogenesis. Additionally, it is important to diagnose ELP in a timely manner as ELP increases the risk of squamous cell carcinoma, with reported cases of malignant transformation. More research is needed on ELP with regard to diagnostic criteria and evidence-based therapeutic recommendations.