Expression of CD83 in Gingival Lesions: Diagnostic Potential in Oral Lichen Planus and Oral Lichenoid Reactions

Oral lichen planus (OLP) and oral lichenoid reactions (OLR) are chronic immune-mediated conditions affecting the oral mucosa, often involving the gingiva. Their overlapping clinical and histopathological features make accurate diagnosis challenging. CD83, a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed on mature dendritic cells, is a key regulator of immune responses through its role in antigen presentation and T-cell activation. This study evaluates the expression of CD83 in gingival tissues affected by OLP and OLR, aiming to establish its diagnostic potential.Seventy-two gingival tissue samples, including 31 OLP, 30 OLR, and 11 normal gingiva, were analyzed using immunohistochemistry. CD83-positive cells were quantified in the basal, suprabasal, and connective tissue regions. The results demonstrated significantly elevated CD83 expression in OLP and OLR compared to normal gingiva, with OLP exhibiting the highest levels. Reticular and erosive subtypes of OLP displayed distinct expression patterns, reflecting variations in immune activity and disease progression.These findings underscore the importance of CD83 as a biomarker for distinguishing OLP from OLR and normal gingiva. Elevated CD83 expression correlates with heightened immune activity, suggesting its relevance in pathogenesis and diagnostic differentiation. The study advocates for further research to validate CD83’s clinical utility in managing gingival lesions and improving diagnostic precision in immune-mediated oral conditions.