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A peer-reviewed course written by Gregori M. Kurtzman, DDS, MAGD, FACD, FPFA, DADIA, DICOI, DIDIA
Abstract
Oral lichen planus—a chronic, inflammatory, immune-mediated condition—may result in erosion of the oral mucosa. The disease presents in four forms—reticular, erosive, atrophic, or bullous—and typically develops in women in their fifth and sixth decades. Reticular oral lichen planus, when absent of erythema, is asymptomatic and does not typically require intervention. However, there is clinical potential of conversion to carcinoma with reticular oral lichen planus associated with erythema or erosion. This potential requires treatment and periodic reevaluation for tissue changes that may indicate conversion to carcinoma. The erosive and ulcerated forms of oral lichen planus are best managed with topical corticosteroids. Refractory cases are recommended to be treated with systemic steroids or other immunosuppressive medications. Nonmedication-based interventions are also available, but with greater potential for adverse reactions, greater degree of side effects, and at greater cost. This review course will discuss identification of oral lichen planus and its management.
Educational objectives
At the conclusion of this educational activity, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the clinical presentation of oral lichen planus
2. Identify the different forms of lichen planus and differentiate them from lichenoid reaction
3. Understand how to treat lichen planus and manage patient comfort
4. Identify interventions discussed in the literature that are supported by limited evidence
Gregori M. Kurtzman, DDS, MAGD, FACD, FPFA, DADIA, DICOI, DIDIA, is in private general dental practice in Silver Spring, Maryland, and is a former assistant clinical professor at University of Maryland in the department of restorative dentistry and endodontics. He is a former AAID Implant Maxi-Course assistant program director at Howard University College of Dentistry. Dr. Kurtzman has lectured internationally on the topics of restorative dentistry; endodontics, implant surgery, and prosthetics; removable and fixed prosthetics; and periodontics. He has published more than 720 articles, several ebooks, and textbook chapters. Dr. Kurtzman has earned fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), American College of Dentists (ACD), International Congress of Oral Implantology (ICOI), Pierre Fauchard Academy, and Association of Dental Implantology (ADI). He has attained mastership in the AGD and ICOI, and diplomate status in the ICOI, American Dental Implant Association (ADIA), and the International Dental Implant Association (IDIA). He is a consultant and evaluator for multiple dental companies. Dr. Kurtzman has been honored to be included in the “Top Leaders in Continuing Education”by Dentistry Today annually since 2006 and was featured on their June 2012 cover. He can be reached at dr_kurtzman@maryland-implants.com.
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