The Effect of COVID-19 and Its Vaccination on Lichen Planus Exacerbation
摘要
Lichen Planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the skin and mucous membranes, characterized by T-cell-mediated immune dysregulation. The advent of COVID-19 and its associated vaccines has raised concerns regarding the potential for exacerbating autoimmune conditions such as LP. This document reviews the available literature on LP exacerbations following COVID-19 infection and vaccination, highlighting the case reports and studies that document flares. COVID-19-induced immune dysregulation, including cytokine storms and T cell activation, may contribute to LP flare-ups. Similarly, COVID-19 vaccines, particularly mRNA-based vaccines, can occasionally trigger exacerbations through heightened immune activation, vaccine adjuvants, and molecular mimicry. Management strategies for LP exacerbations include corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, systemic immunosuppressants, and biological therapies tailored to individual patient needs. It is crucial to balance the benefits of vaccination, which greatly reduces the risk of severe COVID-19, with the potential for autoimmune flare-ups. Pre-vaccination counseling and post-vaccine monitoring are essential for patients with LP to minimize flare risks. Future research should focus on the underlying immunological mechanisms linking COVID-19, vaccination, and LP while also identifying biomarkers that could predict vaccine-induced flares.