Oral lichen planus after COVID-19, a case report

Introduction: The COVID-19 is a global pandemic that is now responsible for more than 3 million deaths around the world. The oral and dermatological manifestations of COVID-19 are being remarkably reported. This report aims to describe a unique case of oral presentation of erosive lichen planus after COVID-19 infection. Case presentation: We present a case of oral lichen planus manifested in the buccal mucosa and the tongue. The lesions were detected one month after COVID-19 infection. Clinical, as well as the histopathological diagnosis, was performed on the oral lesion to confirm oral lichen planus. Clinical discussion: Despite viruses being reported as a triggering factor in oral lichen planus, very few cases of oral lichen planus after COVID-19 infection were noticed. The immunological and psychological changes induced by COVID-19 infection may explain the tendency to find lichen planus lesions in COVID-19 patients. Conclusion: Our case suggests the possible association between COVID-19 and oral lichen planus. This report highlights the role of health practitioners to be concerned about the probably rising incidence of lichen planus during the COVID-19 pandemic and consider appropriate therapeutic and protective measures against infection.