Reversing Oral Lichen Planus After COVID Without Steroids

Mr. H.K. (Patient ID-46992) consulted for treatment of Oral Lichen Planus, which began shortly after recovering from COVID-19 in May 2021. During the initial consultation, he presented with hyperpigmented lesions on the gums and left buccal mucosa, accompanied by mild burning and discomfort when consuming spicy food. The burning sensation would persist for 3–4 days post-exposure. He also reported previous episodes of bleeding from the affected area, although it was stable at the time of consultation.

Past Treatment History:

Before the homeopathic consultation, Mr. H.K. was treated with steroids, including:

Kenacort ointment (BD) for 1 month (June 2021)

Tab Wysolone 10 mg (Prednisolone): Used by dissolving powder from 15 tablets in water and gargling 3 times daily for 15 days (June 2021)

Despite this treatment, there was no significant improvement.

Personal history:

He had a mixed diet with an average appetite. Craving for chicken and eggs and aversion to milk were marked. He had a low water intake of 1-2L/Day with average perspiration. He did not have any urinary or bowel-related complaints. He had a disturbed sleep pattern and preferred to sleep on his Left side. He could not tolerate cold weather in general.

Mr. H.K., a software engineer, lived in a joint family with his wife, 7-month-old daughter, and parents. His wife is a homemaker. He described a well-supported and happy childhood, which was reflected in his calm, gentle, and affectionate nature, although there was a subtle underlying sadness.

Medical & Surgical History:

Sinusitis: Underwent Septoplasty in May 2021

CSOM:

-Right Ear Tympanoplasty (2011)

- Modified Radical Mastoidectomy (Right ear—August 2021)

Based on a detailed case analysis, individualized homeopathic treatment was initiated by Dr. Rajesh Shah.

Follow up:

By the 1st follow-up on 15 Feb 2022, his burning reduced; a mild increase in lesion pigmentation was seen.

2nd Follow-Up  done on 9th Apr 2022 the burning completely subsided; pigmentation started reducing. 

On 3rd July 2022, in her 3rd follow-up, Mr. H.K. reported that 3-6 new patches have been seen on bilateral gums with itching and burning while chewing and swallowing food, linked to post-mastoidectomy recovery

By 6th Sep 2022, significant improvement; recent patches resolved; mild discomfort with hot/spicy foods

5th Follow-Up was conducted on 8th January 2023, 50–60% improvement; no itching or burning; pigmentation visibly reduced

During the treatment term between February 2023 and December 2024, Mr. H.K. was completely stable, hyperpigmented patches were gradually reducing, and symptoms of burning and itching never resurfaced again.

During his last follow-up on 02nd January 2025, he reported that he is 90-95% better in his Oral Lichen planus. Only hyperpigmentation was present; that too was gradually fading away.

Conclusion:

With consistent individualized homeopathic treatment, Mr. H.K. experienced significant and sustained relief from Oral Lichen Planus. Symptoms such as burning, itching, and discomfort were successfully resolved, and hyperpigmented patches are nearly absent. His case demonstrates long-term improvement and disease control, even post-major surgeries and steroidal treatment failure.

- Case study is written by Dr. Mitali Singh, Associate Doctor to Dr. Rajesh Shah, MD (Hom)