title: Use of Direct-Acting Antivirals for the Treatment of Hepatitis C Virus-Associated Oral Lichen Planus: A Case Report.
abstract: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is frequently associated with various extrahepatic manifestations such as autoimmune features and immune complex deposit diseases. Oral lichen planus (OLP) is one of the representative extrahepatic manifestations of HCV infection. Direct-acting antivirals (DAA) are highly effective and safe for the eradication of HCV. However, there is a lack of information regarding the association between HCV-associated OLP and interferon (IFN)-free DAA therapy. Herein, we present the case of a 60-year-old female who was diagnosed with OLP during routine periodontal treatment by a dentist. The patient was referred for hepatitis C treatment using IFN-free DAA, which resulted in the improvement of the symptoms of OLP. This case represents the safety and efficacy of IFN-free DAAs in patients with HCV-associated OLP. However, long-term follow-up studies are required to elucidate the therapeutic effects of this therapy in these patients.
authors.affiliation: Misaka Dental Clinic, Fukuoka, Japan.
authors.forename: Kenji
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Misaka
authors.affiliation: Kishimoto Dental Clinic, Fukuoka, Japan.
authors.forename: Takashi
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Kishimoto
authors.affiliation: Department of Organ System Interactions and Information, Saga Medical School, Saga, Japan.
authors.forename: Yuji
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Kawahigashi
authors.affiliation: Nishinihon Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan; Research Center for Innovative Cancer Therapy, Kurume University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
authors.forename: Michio
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Sata
authors.affiliation: Department of Organ System Interactions and Information, Saga Medical School, Saga, Japan; Research Center for Innovative Cancer Therapy, Kurume University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan.
authors.forename: Yumiko
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Nagao
keywords: Direct-acting antivirals; Extrahepatic manifestations; Hepatitis C virus; Interferon; Oral lichen planus