What is the recommended treatment for erosive lichen planus?

• A. Antivirals
• B. Steroids
• C. Antibiotics
• D. NSAIDs

Answer: (B)

Erosive lichen planus is an autoimmune inflammatory condition of the oral mucosa, and the goal of treatment is to suppress that immune-driven inflammation to relieve pain and promote healing. Corticosteroids do this most effectively by dampening the local immune response and reducing ulceration and erythema. Topical potent steroids are typically the first-line treatment and can significantly improve symptoms and healing time; in more extensive cases, systemic steroids or other immunosuppressants may be considered.

Antivirals and antibiotics target infections, not the inflammatory process of erosive lichen planus, so they don’t address the underlying problem. NSAIDs may help with pain but do not control the disease and can irritate the mucosa. Thus, steroids are the best choice for managing this condition.