Lichen planus is an inflammatory condition that can affect the lining of the mouth as well as the skin. The cause is not fully understood. It is common and affects up to 2% of the population. Lichen planus is most frequent in middle age and women are affected slightly more frequently than men. Although there is no known cure, treatment can be given to make the symptoms better.

In the mouth lichen planus is usually found on the inside of the cheeks and on the side of the tongue although it can also affect the gums and roof of the mouth. Usually lichen planus has a lace-like pattern of streaky white patches that occasionally can be thickened. Often the patches are symmetrical, ie affect the same site on different sides of the mouth. Sometimes lichen planus may be associated with red patches or sores.

It is not cancer.

It is not inherited, ie passed on from your parents.

It is not contagious, ie you cannot "catch it" from someone who has it or give it to somebody else.

It is not related to nutrition although some foods you eat can make the patches of lichen planus sore.

How is lichen planus diagnosed?

The appearance of lichen planus is usually typical and can be diagnosed by an experienced doctor or dentist just looking inside your mouth. The diagnosis sometimes needs confirmation with a biopsy (ie removal of a small amount of tissue which can then be looked at closely under a microscope).

If lichen planus is not causing you any problems it does not require treatment although you may be kept a close eye on. If lichen planus is causing you problems such as soreness, treatments can be given to lessen the symptoms. Usually these are given directly on to the affected areas (topically) rather than having to take tablets to swallow.

You may find it helpful to keep a diary and look for trigger events if you have a flare-up of symptoms. These flare-ups may be related to particular foods, stress or local trauma.

You may find it useful to change to a milder form of toothpaste. It is important to maintain good hygiene in the mouth.

Some lichen planus can be related to amalgam (metal fillings). If this is the problem in your case, it may be suggested that a filling is replaced.

This is difficult to say. Some people suffer for only a few months before their symptoms settle down. Others may suffer for several years. Once the symptoms disappear they may or may not return at a later date.