Low molecular weight heparin; a novel alternative therapeutic approach for lichen planus.

Abstract

Heparin analogues in low doses have antiproliferative and immunomodulatory properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of low-dose enoxaparin administered subcutaneously in lichen planus (LP). Eighteen patients with various types of LP were treated in an open study for 6-13 weeks. Efficacy and safety data were recorded. Complete remission was observed in 11 of 18 patients (61%) and marked improvement in two (11%). Widespread cutaneous involvement and reticulated oral LP had the best response, while in LP of the scalp the response was poor. Enoxaparin is a promising alternative therapy for various types of LP.

• Authors: M P Stefanidou, D J Ioannidou, J G Panayiotides, A D Tosca
• Journal: The British journal of dermatology (Br J Dermatol) Vol. 141 Issue 6 Pg. 1040-5 (Dec 1999) ISSN: 0007-0963 [Print] England
• PMID: 10606849 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Enoxaparin
• Immunosuppressive Agents

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Drug Evaluation
• Enoxaparin (therapeutic use)
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Immunosuppressive Agents (therapeutic use)
• Injections, Subcutaneous
• Lichen Planus (drug therapy, pathology)
• Male
• Middle Aged