An oral lichen planus-like lesion in Indian betel-tobacco chewers.

During an epidemiologic study of oral cancer and precancerous lesions among Indian villagers, a lichen planus-like lesion was observed in Kerala. The lesion consisted of white, wavy, parallel, non-elevated lines that could not be scraped off. The lesion occurred exclusively among chewers and at the site of placement of quid. There were no subjective symptoms. The peak prevalence of the 35 diagnosed lesions was in the 35-44 years age-group for males and 45-54 for females. There was a marked female predominance. The histologic features were very similar to those seen in oral lichen planus.