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Gingival and other oral manifestations in measles virus infection
Joseph Katz1, Marcio Guelmann, Franci Stavropolous
1Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Dentistry, University of Florida, FL 32610-0416, USA. jkatz@dental.ufl.edu
Background:
Measles is a highly contagious, viral infectious disease affecting mainly children and young adults. It is characterized by high fever, maculopapular rash, keratoconjunctivitis and pathognomonic oral Koplik's spots.
Methods:
During an outbreak of measles among soldiers in the Israeli military, patients were referred to one medical center where they were also examined for oral signs and symptoms of their illness.
Results:
We present a case of measles infection with distinct oral findings. These included Koplik's spots, various forms of ulcerations of the free mucosa, -like gingivitis and pericoronitis. All oral lesions resolved after cessation of systemic illness.
Conclusions:
The measles virus is associated with a transient inhibition of the host response. Immunosuppression may create the necessary condition for the proliferation of pathobacteria associated with the observed pericoronitis and the other gingival lesions.
Insights
Measles infection presents with distinct oral findings, including Koplik's spots and gingival lesions. These oral manifestations resolve as the systemic measles illness subsides, indicating a transient impact on oral health.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Oral Medicine
Background:
- Measles is a highly contagious viral illness primarily affecting children and young adults.
- Key symptoms include fever, rash, keratoconjunctivitis, and characteristic Koplik's spots.
- The study investigates oral manifestations during a measles outbreak in military personnel.
Observation:
- Distinct oral findings were observed in measles patients.
- These included Koplik's spots, ulcerations of the oral mucosa, and gingival inflammation (gingivitis/pericoronitis).
Findings:
- All observed oral lesions resolved after the systemic measles infection resolved.
- Measles virus may transiently suppress the host immune response.
- This immunosuppression could facilitate the proliferation of bacteria causing gingival lesions.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of recognizing oral signs in measles diagnosis.
- Suggests a link between measles-induced immunosuppression and secondary oral infections.
- Informs clinical management of measles patients with oral complications.