Oro-vaginal-vulvar lichen planus: report of two new cases

Atrophic-erosive lichen planus with oral and genital involvement is a rare condition and is often difficult to diagnose. Patients seldom report genital symptoms to the dentist and dentists do not generally investigate about genital lesions. Delays in diagnosis may cause complications and affect the quality of life. We report the clinical and histopathological features of two new cases of oro-vaginal-vulvar lichen planus and review current treatment options for this condition. Genital lichen planus should be suspected in case of atrophic-erosive oral lichen planus. A thorough multidisciplinary medical management and active early treatment are necessary to improve symptoms and prevent genital sequelae. This might also be a relevant prevention strategy for the risk of squamous cell carcinoma, although data to fully support this statement still need investigation. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.