Lichen Planus Clinical Trials 2023

What are Lichen Planus Clinical Trials?

Lichen planus (LP) is a long-term condition that affects the skin, scalp, nails, and mucous membranes, causing swelling and irritation. Common symptoms in typical locations on the body are given below:

• Purplish, flat bumps and lesions on the skin that can turn into itchy blisters. On darker skin tones, these bumps can appear grayish.
• Color change on the scalp and hair loss
• Damage and nail loss
• White lacy patches that can develop into painful sores in mucous membranes of the skin and vagina

Lichen planus is not contagious, not a form of cancer, and does not occur due to bad hygiene. It can affect anyone but is not life-threatening. Mild cases can be managed at home without hospitalization. However, if left untreated, it can cause serious complications, such as an increase in the chances of oral cancer, leading to hearing loss (if in the ear canal) and sexual dysfunction (if in the vulva or vagina).

Why Study Lichen Planus Through Clinical Trials?

Lichen planus lesions can present eleven known forms with varying appearances and have been seen to occur with other syndromes. It is believed to affect approximately 1% of the US population. The reason it occurs is still unknown, and there is no cure.

Clinical trials have helped isolate possible causes such as autoimmune responses, allergic reactions, and even infections from viruses like the hepatitis C virus. However, there still isn't enough to verify these causes. Further research is needed to discover the cause and develop treatment plans to eradicate the symptoms quickly.

What Are The Types of Treatments Available For Lichen Planus?

In most cases, lichen planus (LP) will resolve on its own within a year, especially in the case of mild LP, so medication is not required. However, medication can provide symptomatic relief for issues like itching. For patients that have LP lesions on their skin, treatment can improve the skin’s appearance by healing the lesions quicker.

Topical steroids are generally prescribed, and doctors may inject corticosteroids directly into the bumps to reduce inflammation and discoloration. For oral LP, steroid inhalant powders or pastes are used as they are easier to apply inside the mouth, while hydrocortisone foams are recommended for vaginal LP. Antihistamines, broad-spectrum antibiotics, hydroxychloroquine, retinoids, and antifungal medications may also be used for the treatment depending on the presentation of symptoms.

What are Some Notable Breakthroughs in Lichen Planus Clinical Trials?

2013: An ongoing clinical trial studying the use of apremilast to treat lichen planus, a medication used to treat psoriasis. Initial findings suggest apremilast is effective; however, further study is needed with a larger sample size to establish statistical significance.

2020: An Australian study found that oral LP can increase the risk for oral cancer. This relation is why doctors recommend that people with oral LP should check for signs of malignancy every 6 – 12 months and refrain from smoking and alcohol drinking, which are known to increase the risk of oral cancer.