Hi, Esophageal Lichen Planus is a autoimmune disease. The immune system is attacking the mucus membranes in the body. The Lichen Planus in the esophagus causes strictures and bands around the esophagus. This squeezes the around the esophagus and can cause the esophagus to close. In the past four months I have had to have my esophagus stretched twice because food and pills were getting lodged. I would choke at times.
There are less than 50 people in the country that have ELP. I also have Oral Lichen Planus and Lichen Planus on my skin. It causes bumps and lesions in the mouth and skin. Yuck!!!😖
If you can, make an appointment with a gastroenterologist. ELP is so rare it can be a challenge to diagnose. In order to diagnose ELP the specialist will need to put a scope down into your esophagus and take biopsies. The doctor and the pathologist make the diagnosis.
There is not a cure for ELP or LP. It's a trial and error experience to find anything to help the symptoms. It's possible for the oral and skin Lichen Planus to go into remission for an unknown period of time.
I hope this helps you!❣️