PURPOSE: Lichen planus is a chronic systemic disease that commonly involves the mucosa of the oral cavity, most often in the absence of skin lesions. Although relatively frequent, oral lichen planus is the target of much controversy, mainly in relation to its pathogenesis and possible potential for malignancy. Thus, the objective of this paper is to report two cases of lichen planus in male patients and to discuss the main aspects of this disease in relation to etiopathogenesis and treatment. CASE DESCRIPTION: Physical and histopathological examinations were carried out to confirm the diagnosis of oral lichen planus. An elixir of dexamethasone was prescribed in the first case, and in the second case, topical 0.05% clobetasol propionate was prescribed. After fifteen days, both patients presented regression of the lesion. CONCLUSION: Although the occurrence of oral lichen planus is common, an accurate diagnosis is necessary so that the correct treatment can be established.
Lichen planus; oral mucosa; pathogenesis; diagnosis; treatment