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Risk factors
By Mayo Clinic staffWhile it's not known what causes oral lichen planus, factors that may increase your risk of the condition include:
- Sex. Women are more likely than are men to have oral lichen planus.
- Medications. Certain medications, such as some of those used to treat arthritis, heart disease, high blood pressure and malaria, may trigger oral lichen planus.
- Allergies. Oral lichen planus can result from an allergic reaction to food, food additives, fragrances, dyes, dental metals or other substances.
- Medical conditions. Certain medical conditions, including other immune disorders, are associated with oral lichen planus. These may include lichen planus of the skin, liver disease, graft-versus-host disease, primary sclerosing cholangitis, lupus erythematosus, primary biliary cirrhosis, Sjogren's syndrome, ulcerative colitis, alopecia areata, and myasthenia gravis.
- Dental issues. Sharp edges on your teeth, dental restorations, ill-fitting dental prostheses, some periodontal surgical procedures, and oral habits such as lip and cheek chewing may raise the risk of oral lichen planus.
- Betel quid. Chewing betel quid — a plant and nut combination common in Southeast Asia — may increase your risk.
- Psychological issues. Stress, depression and anxiety often accompany oral lichen planus and may worsen existing cases.
