Key factors including patient age and duration of treatment were found to influence the clinical remission of oral lichen planus when treated with topical corticosteroids. 

Each additional year of a patient's age increased the probability of incomplete remission by 7.9%, while each additional month of treatment increased the probability by 2.3%, researchers noted. The insights underscore the challenges older patients face in achieving remission, potentially due to coexisting medical conditions and decreased treatment compliance.

The study, published in BDJ Open, also found the type and location of oral lichen planus lesions influence treatment outcomes, with gingival and vestibule areas showing poorer response. The use of different formulations of topical steroids also played a critical role, with variations in efficacy observed between different types and potencies of steroids.

Despite the chronic nature of oral lichen planus and the difficulty in achieving permanent remission, the study provided evidence that could guide more effective management of the disease, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment strategies based on individual patient characteristics.

The authors report no conflicts of interest related to this study.