Amlodipine-induced buccal lichenoid lesions: A case report

Abstract

Buccal lichenoid lesions (BLLs) are characterised by a unique, linear whitish striation in the buccal region and can be accompanied by ulcers, plaques, erythemas, atrophies and blisters. They are distinguished from oral lichen planus (OLP) by the association of the administration of a drug or contact with a metal. Herein, we present the case of a 42-year-old woman with underlying hypertension with amlodipine-induced BLLs. She complained of a 1-month history of right buccal whitish streaks and oral ulcers 2 months after taking amlodipine. She visited a private otorhinolaryngology clinic, and a biopsy for the right buccal ulcer was conducted. The biopsy result showed features suggestive of OLP. The patient was then diagnosed with OLP. Her symptoms were persistent despite treatment, so a dental referral was made. Amlodipine was suspected as the cause of her condition and was therefore stopped. Her condition gradually resolved after amlodipine withdrawal. Hence, primary care physicians should be aware of BLLs as one of the adverse drug reactions of amlodipine so that prompt management can be taken to avoid further debilitating impacts on patients.

Keywords

• amlodipine
• adverse drug reaction
• lichenoid eruptions
• lichen planus
• oral ulcer