Lichen Planus Erosive Form

Erosive lichen planus (ELP) is a variant of lichen planus which involves chronic and painful ulceration of the skin and mucosal surfaces. ELP is thought to be the result of autoimmune damage of the basal cell layer, which is mediated by activated CD8 T lymphocytes. Occasionally, ELP may present in conjunction with other clinical forms of lichen planus or may be induced by drug exposure. Clinical findings include painful, persistent ulcers, primarily of the mouth and genitals. Complications of ELP include secondary infection, development of squamous cell carcinoma, and scarring.