Case-Based Insights: A 17-Year Journey with Oral Lichen Planus

Highlights from the ILS Session – 28th May

On 28th May, the ILS (International Laser Specialists) hosted an insightful session featuring a compelling case discussion on Oral Lichen Planus, a chronic inflammatory condition that continues to pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges to clinicians across specialties.

The session was spearheaded by Dr. Gunjan Richa, a skilled Periodontist, Implantologist, and Laser Specialist, currently consulting in Bangalore. The discussion was expertly moderated by Dr. Chandrashekar Yavagal, a respected academician and clinician known for his extensive contributions to interdisciplinary dental education.

A Rare Long-Term Case Study

Dr. Gunjan Richa presented a 17-year-long standing case of Oral Lichen Planus, offering the audience a rare opportunity to examine the evolution and management of this condition over an extended timeline. The patient had long-standing oral lichen planus for 17 years, with lesions prominently observed in the palatal region.

Treatment Administered:

  • Seven sessions of Photobiomodulation (PBM) using a Combo Coherent Laser Device (Red and Infrared wavelengths fired simultaneously)
  • Followed by Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) using Chitosan-Enriched Methylene Blue Dye (Novo Blue, Novolase Technologies, India)

Post-Discussion Management Plan:

  • Continued PBM sessions using Red and Infrared wavelengths alternately, based on the LINT philosophy, at a dosage of 4 to 6 Joules/cm²
  • Since oral lichen planus requires a multidisciplinary approach, the following medications were recommended alongside laser therapy:
    • Topical medications: Tenovate with Tacrolimus applied locally
    • Doxycycline mouthwash: Thrice daily
    • Injection Arachitol: 6 lakh units, intramuscular
    • Injection Nerivjen: Once a week, intramuscular

Through clinical photographs, detailed records, and thoughtful analysis, Dr. Gunjan highlighted how persistent care, interdisciplinary coordination, and a patient-centric approach can lead to meaningful improvements even in complex, chronic cases.

Interdisciplinary Perspectives and Valuable Inputs

Dr. Chandrashekar Yavagal, serving as the moderator, enriched the discussion with clinical insights on treatment protocols, diagnostic considerations, and holistic patient management. The session fostered a dynamic exchange of experiences, with doctors from various specialties contributing their own encounters with lichen planus, making the discussion truly collaborative.

Interactive Q&A Session

The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, where life members actively engaged with both Dr. Gunjan and Dr. Yavagal. Several pertinent questions were raised regarding treatment approaches, differential diagnoses, and long-term follow-up strategies. The speakers offered practical, experience-based solutions, further enhancing the session’s educational value.

Conclusion

The 28th May ILS session was a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and long-term clinical follow-up in addressing complex oral conditions like Oral Lichen Planus. With experts like Dr. Gunjan Richa and Dr. Chandrashekar Yavagal leading the conversation, the session provided valuable insights and inspiration for dental professionals striving to elevate their clinical practice.

Stay tuned for more such enriching discussions in upcoming ILS sessions!