A Case of Oral Lichen Planus in a Patient with Anti-Desmoglein Antibodies

Abstract

A 75-year-old woman had been suffering from oral multiple erosions. Both anti-desmoglein (Dsg) 1 antibody and anti-Dsg3 antibody were detected by ELISA ; however histopathological examination and immunofluorescence studies showed no specific features of pemphigus, and this case was diagnosed as oral lichen planus. Oral betamethasone, DDS, etretinate and tacrolimus ointment were effective for the lesions. During the course, there was no correlation between the ELISA (antibody) titer and oral erosions. Although oral erosions were aggravated repeatedly, neither anti-Dsg1 nor anti-Dsg3 ELISA index was elevated.