A Case Series of Esophageal Lichen Planus: An Underdiagnosed Cause of Dysphagia

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic mucocutaneous inflammatory condition that typically affects middle-aged adults. Esophageal involvement in LP is rare and underrecognized, often leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment of LP. Herein, we describe three cases of esophageal LP (ELP) in clinically symptomatic patients with endoscopic lesions in the upper to mid-esophagus. This case series suggests that ELP is be more common than was previously thought and emphasizes that clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for this diagnosis, particularly when evaluating proximal esophageal lesions in patients presenting with dysphagia. The series also highlights the successful treatment of our patients with budesonide-honey slurry.