Clinico-histopathological correlation for diagnosis of lichenoid interface dermatoses

Context: Lichenoid interface dermatitis refers to the histological pattern which is useful for the classification and diagnosis of disorders of a particular group in dermatology with peculiar features. Aims: To get clinico pathological correlation in lichenoid interface dermatitis which will help in accurate diagnosis by analyzing history, clinical examination as well as histological details of nature and extent of epidermal, interface and dermal changes and the distribution of various inflammatory cell infiltrates. Methods: After appropriate case selection according to the inclusion criteria, the biopsy was taken and sent for histopathological analysis. It was reviewed and correlation was done in each patient. Statistical analysis used: kappa correlation analysis. Results: Out of total 117 cases, 108 were of lichen planus, five were of lichen striatus, two of lichenoid drug eruptions and two of lichen nitidus. Clinico-pathological correlation was present in 70.94% of cases of lichenoid interface dermatitis. Correlation was seen in 100% cases of lichen striatus, and 78% cases of lichen planus. Conclusions: The most consistent findings in histology in our study were basement membrane degeneration, band like lymphocytic infiltrates and melanin incontinence. Other findings such as hypergranulosis, civatte bodies were not observed frequently.