Epidermal barrier function and systemic diseases.

The skin is a vital organ for life and, among its many functions, the role as a protective barrier is one of the most important. It is the main boundary between the body and the external environment. As defensive barrier, the epidermis protects internal organs from physical and chemical trauma, microorganism invasion, and ultraviolet radiation.

Oral involvement in autoimmune bullous diseases.

The oral mucosa is frequently involved by autoimmune bullous diseases and often this is the first site of manifestation. In this site the lesions are very similar, making the clinical diagnosis difficult; therefore, the definition of the immunohistopathologic characteristics of each one becomes essential for a differential diagnosis. The authors review the clinical-pathological and therapeutic aspect of these oral injuries in order to help in the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of the oral conditions of those diseases.

Premalignant nature of oral and vulval lichen planus: facts and controversies.

Although many classifications include oral lesions of lichen planus in the category of a premalignant condition, there is still much discussion about whether the mucous membranes lesions should be characterized as an intrinsically premalignant condition or merely as a facilitator of the action of a carcinogenic factor. The possibility that an epidermoid carcinoma can emerge at the site of lichen planus lesions, mainly in mucous membranes, has been shown; however, several published cases omit information about other potential risk factors. This prevents a complete analysis of the triggering relationship between lichen planus and squamous cell carcinoma.

Oral lichen planus part II: therapy and malignant transformation.

Oral lichen planus lesions can cause discomfort, pain, and a burning sensation. Therefore, all professionals who deal with the oral cavity must be aware of all the therapeutic options for it. This article presents a review of the literature on oral lichen planus, focusing on its treatment, and also discusses the important and controversial potential for the evolution of oral lichen planus into epidermoid carcinoma.

Oral lichen planus part I: epidemiology, clinics, etiology, immunopathogeny, and diagnosis.

This article presents a review of the literature on oral lichen planus, focusing on important aspects of its epidemiology, etiopathogeny, and clinical manifestations. The oral form is an important clinical presentation of lichen planus. It may precede or accompany the skin lesions, or it may be the only manifestation of the disease.