Imiquimod reactivation of lichen planus

Cutis. 2012 Jun;89(6):276-7, 283.

Abstract

A 44-year-old man who was previously diagnosed with actinic cheilitis was prescribed imiquimod cream 5%, which resulted in thick hemorrhagic crusting of the lower lip after 4 applications. He subsequently noted the development of lichen planus lesions on his arms and legs for the first time in 15 years following imiquimod use. On follow-up he also was noted to have characteristic Wickham striae on his lower lip. Lichen planus is an autoimmune inflammatory condition in which autoreactive T lymphocytes attack keratinocytes. The mechanism of action for imiquimod is upregulation of IFN-alpha and IFN-beta. Treatment with clobetasol cream 0.05% led to resolution of his lichen planus lesions.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adjuvants, Immunologic / administration & dosage
  • Adjuvants, Immunologic / adverse effects*
  • Adjuvants, Immunologic / therapeutic use
  • Administration, Topical
  • Adult
  • Aminoquinolines / administration & dosage
  • Aminoquinolines / adverse effects*
  • Aminoquinolines / therapeutic use
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cheilitis / drug therapy
  • Clobetasol / administration & dosage
  • Clobetasol / therapeutic use
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Imiquimod
  • Lichen Planus / etiology*
  • Lichen Planus / pathology
  • Lip
  • Male
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Adjuvants, Immunologic
  • Aminoquinolines
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Clobetasol
  • Imiquimod

Supplementary concepts

  • Actinic cheilitis