03/03/2017
oral conditions strongly suggests AIDS continued
Opportunistic Tumors
Several opportunistic tumors (cancers or neoplasms) are associated with HIV infection. Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) occur most frequently and may manifest in the oral cavity. Both of these conditions are seen when immunesuppression is severe and an individual has an AIDS diagnosis (a CD4 cell count below 200 cells/mm3).
KS is the most common neoplasm in people with HIV. It is a
malignancy of the endothelial lining of blood vessels and is
associated with a herpesvirus known as HHV-8. KS appears clinically as flat or raised, usually reddish or purplish lesions that do not blanch (whiten) with pressure. Lesions often enlarge rapidly and may become exophytic (grow outward).
Hairy Leukoplakia (mild to moderate)
Kaposis Sarcoma (macular)
Palliative treatment for oral KS is rarely required unless the lesion enlarges and interferes with chewing or talking. In such cases, interventions include systemic doxorubicin (Doxil) or paclitaxel (Taxol), localized chemotherapy, and surgery; injections of vinblastine (Velban) appear effective in some studies. Large, multiple lesions may be treated with radiation therapy. People with KS who start antiretroviral therapy for the first time may see their lesions resolve without further treatment.
NHL in the oral cavity is most often a soft, tumor-like mass that may enlarge rapidly. Biopsy is required for diagnosis, and treatment consists of radiation and/or chemotherapy. Until treatment can be implemented, palliative care is usually not required.
Conclusion
HIV-positive people should be encouraged to receive dental examinations every six months, preferably by a provider who is familiar with conditions associated with decreased immune
function. Some conditions, such as thrush, may be mistaken for materia alba, which is the result of poor oral hygiene. Other conditions that might be allowed to run their course without
medication in individuals with competent immune systems — such as aphthous ulcers — should be treated in people with HIV. Again, most oral problems, such as dental caries and
periodontal disease, are the result of bacterial infections.
Individuals with HIV can protect themselves not only with routine examinations, but also by brushing and flossing regularly, as well as by not smoking and limiting alcohol intake. Smoking and alcohol use are strongly associated with oral cancers, which are relatively common and have a poor prognosis compared with other types of cancer. As always, lifestyle changes may reduce the need to fight off or treat preventable diseases