AIDS update. Oral manifestations and management

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• The global acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) pandemic is a growing concern.
• Dental professionals are integral to patient care, regardless of HIV status.
• Oral manifestations are frequent in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, often presenting as initial symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significance of oral manifestations in HIV infection.
• To emphasize the role of dental professionals in identifying and managing HIV-related oral conditions.
• To underscore the importance of dental care in the context of the global AIDS pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Review of common oral manifestations associated with HIV immunosuppression.
• Discussion of opportunistic infections, autoimmune diseases, and malignancies in HIV-positive individuals.
• Emphasis on the diagnostic and counseling opportunities for dental clinicians.

Main Results:

• Oral manifestations are common in HIV infection and can be indicative of disease progression.
• Conditions such as opportunistic infections, autoimmune disorders, and cancers frequently appear in the oral cavity.
• Dental professionals are well-positioned to detect these signs early.

Conclusions:

• Dental clinicians have a vital opportunity to diagnose HIV infection through oral manifestations.
• Early recognition facilitates timely patient management and counseling.
• Integrating dental care is essential for comprehensive HIV/AIDS patient management.