About Us
The International Lichen Planus Foundation was officially founded by Dr. Nancy W. Burkhart and Dr. Donna A. Culton in 2026 in order to advance research, provide patient support, and improve the quality of life for individuals living with lichen planus. The Foundation is dedicated to connecting patients with knowledgeable healthcare providers, advancing innovative treatment research, and raising awareness of this chronic immune-mediated condition among both the medical community and the general public.
The International Lichen Planus Foundation functions in several key areas:
- To serve as a resource for patients, address concerns/questions and to offer emotional support individually as well as through a group effort. Through our website, contact with individual patients and periodic webinars, we offer a connective service providing a wide range of personal connections.
- To serve as a central educational resource for both patients and practitioners by providing accurate, current information and promoting research efforts on both mucosal diseases and cutaneous diseases.
- To serve as a resource to help patients and practitioners identify world-wide disease experts, university-based and private practice specialty clinics, dental schools, and facilities that are knowledgeable in the treatment of lichen planus in all of the areas that can be affected.
About Patient Support
Research on patient support groups has shown positive conclusions about patient recovery rates and has provided insight on the social and psychological benefits to the patient. These programs provide several key functions. Since some disease states, such as lichen planus, are considered to be an “orphan disease state” most patients do not know anyone who has their diagnosis, symptoms or treatment regimen.
Find out more about our support group here.
Get Involved
We welcome patients, caregivers, and medical and dental professionals from around the world. Join us to access resources, connect with others, and be part of a community committed to improving life with lichen planus. To join us or just reach out, contact us here.