Superficial Mycosis Superimposing on Isolated Lichen Planus of the Lip: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

We report a case of superficial mycosis superimposing on isolated lichen planus (LP) of the lower lip that was successfully treated. A 36-year-old woman had 2 ulcerated, scaling, erythematous plaques on the lower lip for several months with mild painful sensation. Results of histologic study showed typical features of LP, but fungal hyphae were found in the horny layer. The lesion healed with only very mild residual erythema after 6 weeks of treatment. A review of the literature shows only one noted case of tinea of the lip, which was reported in 1968 by a dental practitioner, and only several cases of isolated LP of the lip. The possible mechanism of coexistence of tinea and LP of the lip is reviewed.