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Porphyromonas gingivalis as a Model Organism for Assessing Interaction of Anaerobic Bacteria with Host Cells
Published on: December 17, 2015
Pemphigus vulgaris presenting as gingival involvement
Mukhatar Ahmed Javali1, Heena Zainab
1Department of Preventive Dental Sciences, Division of Periodontics, King Khalid University College of Dentistry, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Indian Dermatology Online Journal
|November 29, 2012
Summary
Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune disease causing blisters on skin and mucous membranes, often starting in the mouth. Dentists may be the first to diagnose PV when it unusually presents on the gingiva.
Area of Science:
- Oral Medicine
- Dermatology
- Autoimmune Disorders
Background:
- Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a chronic autoimmune mucocutaneous disorder.
- It characteristically presents with blistering lesions on the skin and mucous membranes.
- Oral lesions typically precede or occur exclusively in the majority of PV cases.
Observation:
- This case report highlights an unusual primary presentation of pemphigus vulgaris on the gingiva.
- Gingival involvement can be the initial or sole manifestation of this systemic disease.
- The dentist's role in early recognition and diagnosis is crucial.
Findings:
- Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation and is confirmed by histopathological examination.
- Early identification of gingival PV is essential for timely management.
- Prompt treatment can mitigate severe, potentially life-threatening complications.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering systemic diseases, such as PV, in gingival presentations.
- Awareness of the gingiva as a potential site for systemic disease manifestation is critical for healthcare providers.
- Enhanced diagnostic vigilance can improve patient outcomes for chronic mucocutaneous disorders.
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