LICHEN-PLANUS ASSOCIATED WITH TOPICAL BETA-BLOCKER THERAPY

PURPOSE: We studied two clinical cases that demonstrated an associatio n between topical beta blocker therapy and lichen planus. METHODS: Two patients developed skin lesions while on topical beta blocker therapy for open angle glaucoma. They underwent skin. biopsies to determine t he origin of the lesions. They were subsequently treated and followed up clinically. RESULTS: Skin biopsy specimens from each patient demons trated infiltrates consistent with a lichenoid drug reaction. The symp toms resolved after discontinuation of the topical beta blocker therap y. Neither patient developed a recurrence. CONCLUSION: We suggest that lichen planus is a possible side effect: of topical beta blocker ther apy.