Effect of the Use of Propolis on Serum Levels of Interleukin-17 in Patients with Ulcerative Oral Lichen Planus

Abstract

Background and aims: Ulcerative oral lichen planus is a relatively common symptomatic condition with a potential for malignant transformation. Interleukin-17 is a cytokines, which has attracted the attention of researchers as a factor effective in its etiology. Therefore, recent research in relation to the treatment of inflammatory and immunologic diseases has focused on techniques to decrease and regulate cytokines, especially interleukin-17. Propolis is one of the products of honeybees and has antiinflammatory, antineoplastic and antimicrobial properties and an effect on decreasing IL-17 levels. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of propolis on serum levels of IL-17 and clinical symptoms and signs in patients with ulcerative oral lichen planus. Materials and methods: In this clinical trial, 25 patients with ulcerative lichen planus were included. Blood samples were taken to determine IL-17 serum levels. Then 500-mg capsules of propolis were given for 30 days a capsule daily. After a month, serum levels of IL-17 were determined once again. In addition, pain severity ( based on VAS) and the maximum sizes of lesions before and after administration of propolis were determined. Results: Mean serum levels of IL-17 before and after intervention were 13516.5 and 12712 pg/mL, respectively, demonstrating statistically significant differences. In addition, pain severity means before and after treatment were 4.23.6 and 3.32.8, respectively, with statistically significant differences. The means of maximum lesion sizes before and after treatment were 147.7 and 9.87.6 mm, revealing statistically significant differences. Conclusion: Administration of propolis decreased IL-17 serum levels, pain and burning sensation severity (based on VAS) and the maximum of lesion diameters in patients with ulcerative oral lichen planus