Assessing the Impact of Vitamin D on Oral Lichen Planus

Ritwika Gomez^*
*Correspondence: Ritwika Gomez, Department of Nutrition, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia, Email:

Introduction

Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, manifesting in a variety of clinical presentations such as white, lacy patches, painful erosions, or atrophic lesions. The etiology of OLP is not fully understood but is thought to involve a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and an aberrant immune response. The condition is often managed with corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive agents, but these treatments can have significant side effects and are not always effective in all patients. Recent studies have highlighted the role of vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin essential for maintaining bone health and regulating the immune system, in modulating immune responses and influencing inflammatory processes. Given the potential immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D, it is hypothesized that it might play a role in the pathogenesis or management of OLP. This paper seeks to investigate the impact of vitamin D on OLP by reviewing current research, assessing the relationship between vitamin D levels and OLP severity, and evaluating the potential of vitamin D supplementation as an adjunctive treatment for this challenging condition [1].

Description

Vitamin D is well-known for its role in calcium and phosphorus metabolism, which is crucial for bone health. Beyond its classical effects on bone, vitamin D is increasingly recognized for its role in modulating the immune system. It acts through the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) present on various immune cells, influencing both innate and adaptive immune responses. This interaction suggests a potential impact on autoimmune conditions and inflammatory diseases. In the context of Oral Lichen Planus, there is growing interest in understanding whether vitamin D deficiency might exacerbate disease severity or influence the clinical course. Several observational studies have reported lower serum levels of vitamin D in patients with OLP compared to healthy controls [2]. These findings imply a possible link between vitamin D deficiency and increased disease severity or a higher incidence of OLP. Additionally, vitamin D's role in regulating mucosal immunity and promoting epithelial cell health could theoretically support mucosal repair and reduce inflammation. Mechanistic studies are also exploring how vitamin D might influence the local immune environment in the oral cavity. By synthesizing data from clinical trials, observational studies, and laboratory research, this assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of vitamin D's impact on OLP and its potential therapeutic implications [3].

In addition to observational studies, there have been experimental investigations examining the effects of vitamin D supplementation on OLP. These studies often focus on the changes in disease activity, symptom severity, and quality of life in patients receiving vitamin D as an adjunct to conventional treatments. For instance, clinical trials have tested different dosages of vitamin D to evaluate its impact on oral mucosal healing and immune modulation. Initial results from some of these trials suggest that vitamin D supplementation might lead to improvements in clinical outcomes, such as reduced pain and inflammation, enhanced mucosal repair, and overall better disease management. However, the findings have been mixed, with some studies showing significant benefits while others report minimal or no effects [4].

Mechanistically, vitamin D influences various aspects of the immune response that are relevant to OLP. Vitamin D's ability to modulate the function of T-cells and other immune cells could alter the inflammatory pathways implicated in OLP. Specifically, vitamin D might help in reducing the overactive immune response that characterizes OLP by promoting regulatory T-cell activity and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokine production. This modulation of immune function could potentially result in less severe oral lesions and improved patient symptoms. Furthermore, vitamin D's role in enhancing epithelial barrier function and its antimicrobial properties could support mucosal health and resilience against inflammatory damage [5].

Conclusion

The investigation into the relationship between vitamin D and Oral Lichen Planus represents a promising area of research that could have significant implications for the management of this challenging condition. Although preliminary evidence suggests that low vitamin D levels may be associated with more severe manifestations of OLP, the available data are not yet sufficient to draw definitive conclusions. The potential for vitamin D to influence immune function and mucosal inflammation offers a compelling rationale for further research, particularly well-designed clinical trials that assess the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation as part of OLP management. Such studies could provide valuable insights into whether vitamin D could serve as a beneficial adjunct to current therapies, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Until more robust evidence is available, healthcare providers should consider individual patient needs and existing evidence when exploring vitamin D supplementation for OLP patients. Overall, this research highlights the need for continued exploration into the interplay between vitamin D and oral mucosal diseases, aiming to enhance our understanding and treatment options for Oral Lichen Planus.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

References

1. Laurence Le Cleach, M. D. and Olivier Chosidow. "Lichen Planus." N Engl J Med 366 (2012): 723-32.

Google Scholar, Crossref, Indexed at

2. Warnakulasuriya, Saman, Omar Kujan, José M. Aguirre‐Urizar and José V. Bagan, et al. "Oral potentially malignant disorders: A consensus report from an international seminar on nomenclature and classification, convened by the WHO Collaborating Centre for Oral Cancer." Oral Dis 27 (2021): 1862-1880.

Google Scholar, Crossref, Indexed at

3. De Porras-Carrique, Teresa, Miguel Ángel González-Moles, Saman Warnakulasuriya and Pablo Ramos-Garcia. "Depression, anxiety, and stress in oral lichen planus: A systematic review and meta-analysis." Clin Oral Investigations 26 (2022): 1391-1408.

Google Scholar, Crossref, Indexed at

4. Rodríguez-Fonseca, Lucía, Santiago Llorente-Pendás and María García-Pola. "Risk of prediabetes and diabetes in oral lichen planus: A case–control study according to current diagnostic criteria." Diagnostics 13 (2023): 1586.

Google Scholar, Crossref

5. Bao, Zhe-xuan, Xiao-wen Yang, Jing Shi and Yu-feng Wang. "The profile of hematinic deficiencies in patients with oral lichen planus: A case-control study." BMC Oral Health 20 (2020): 1-7.

Google Scholar, Crossref, Indexed at