Contact hypersensitivity to mercury in amalgam restorations may mimic oral lichen planus.

Author: Camisa C, Taylor JS, Bernat JR Jr, Helm TN.

Source: Cutis.

Year: 1999

Comment:

In this study, remission from symptoms related to oral lichen planus occurred in patients after removal of dental amalgam fillings.

Abstract / Excerpt:

“Oral lichenoid lesions caused by hypersensitivity to mercury in amalgam fillings may mimic oral lichen planus on clinical and histologic examination. A positive patch test reaction to more than one mercurial allergen increases confidence in the diagnosis and justifies the removal and replacement of all amalgam fillings with those made of other materials. A complete remission may be expected about 3 months after the last amalgam filling is removed.”

Citation:

Camisa C, Taylor JS, Bernat JR, Helm TN. Contact hypersensitivity to mercury in amalgam restorations may mimic oral lichen planus. Cutis. 1999; 63(3):189-92.