Clinical study of Lichen Planus and therapeutic evaluation of Unani formulation in its management

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory immune mediated disease that more frequently affects the skin and mucosa. Other areas that may be affected include the scalp, hair, nails and mucous membrane of the genitalia.Classic LP is characterized by violaceous, shiny, flat topped polygonal papules of variable sizes.Lichen planus is thought to be a T- cell mediated autoimmune disease, possibly targeting the basal keratinocyte. Exact Etiopathogenesis of LP is still unclear.The diagnosis of Lichen planus is clinical; however, it may be supplemented by histopathology.Aim of management of LP and its variants to control symptoms and to decrease time from onset to resolution. Treatment of cutaneous Lichen planus in conventional system of medicine is oral and topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, Vitamin A, Antibiotics and phototherapy /PUVA etc.

There are some conditions mentioned in Unani system of medicine which has resemblance with lichen planus. It seems to be a type of Amraze Basoorat which is mentioned in almost all classical books.According to it’s clinical presentation it’s features mimics with the clinical presentation of basoor asfar and basoor aswad . The need of this study is to evaluate effectiveness of this classical unani preparation clinically, in this disease.