The efficacy of topical hyaluronic acid in the management of oral lichen planus.
BACKGROUND
The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a topical hyaluronic acid (HA) gel preparation (0.2%) in the management of oral lichen planus (OLP).


METHODS
A total of 124 patients with erosive OLP participated in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial to evaluate the efficacy of a topical HA preparation. Outcome measures included soreness relief following immediate application, oral function and size of erosive/ulcerative area. Patients were medicated for 28 days and completed a log diary recording oral function and soreness scores.


RESULTS
Application of topical HA produced a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in soreness scores when compared with placebo for up to 4 h post-application. There was no difference between treatment groups (P > 0.05) with respect to oral function. Patients treated with 0.2% HA showed a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in the size of the erosive/ulcerated area after 28 days of treatment when compared with baseline. There was no significant difference in changes in ulcerative areas between treatment groups.


CONCLUSIONS
Topical HA (0.2%) does appear to be of some benefit in the management of erosive lichen planus providing efficacy for up to 4 h after administration. Very frequent applications should be considered to obtain a more significant clinical benefit. Topical HA gel may be a useful addition to the treatment option for OLP.
Nolan
A
A
Department of Oral Medicine, University of Dundee, Dental School, Dundee, UK.
Badminton
J
J
Maguire
J
J
Seymour
R A
RA
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000287:Administration, Topical; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006820:Hyaluronic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D017676:Lichen Planus, Oral / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009067:Mouthwashes / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic; D009067:Mouthwashes; D006820:Hyaluronic Acid