Hepatitis C Virus serology in patients with lichen planus

Background: The pathogenic role of Hepatitis C virus in the causation of lichen planus remains controversial. While a number of studies form several centers across the world show an association between HCV and LP, a good number of studies have refuted such an association. Aims and objectives: To study the association between Hepatitis C Virus infection and lichen planus in our institution. Methods: Third generation ELISA (Innova HCV ELISA) for anti-HCV antibodies in the plasma/serum was performed in 40 consecutive cases of lichen planus (confirmed by clinical examinations and histopathology) and equal number of ageand gender-matched healthy volunteers from October 2001 to May 2003. Results: ELISA test for anti-HCV antibodies was negative in all 40 cases as well as in 40 control individuals. Conclusion: There was no association between Hepatitis C Virus infection and lichen planus in our population in South India.