INTEGRATING IMMUNOLOGICAL INSIGHTS INTO THE ETIOPATHOGENESIS WITH CLINICAL REPRESENTATION AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS FOR ORAL LICHEN PLANUS

Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is an immune-mediated, chronic mucosal condition that has been associated with malignant transformation in certain cases. In this review, we will explore more about the etiopathogenesis of OLP, including immunological parameters, genetic aspects, and environmental influences, which are the major important reasons for the development of lesions in the oral cavity. A key player in OLP pathogenesis is the T cell-mediated autoimmune attack, which leads to CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte recruitment and basal keratinocyte apoptosis. OLP risk is also associated with genetic predisposition, e.g., certain Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) alleles and cytokine gene polymorphisms. Environmental aspects: Factors from the environment, such as psychological stress and some medications are also involved in disease worsening. This interplay creates a spectrum of immunological milieu, resulting in clinical and histopathological features. This review also evaluates the clinical presentation, histopathologic characteristics, and diagnostic methods of OLP as well as contemporary management options. In conclusion, we also discuss the severity, indication, and prevention of OLP.