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Riga-Fede disease and neonatal teeth
M Costacurta1, P Maturo, R Docimo
1Department of Odontostomatological Science, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.
ORAL & Implantology
|January 4, 2013
Summary
Riga-Fede disease (RFD) is a rare tongue ulceration in infants caused by irritation from neonatal teeth. Early detection and extraction of the offending teeth ensure rapid healing and prevent complications like poor nutrition.
Area of Science:
- Paediatric Dentistry
- Oral Pathology
Background:
- Riga-Fede disease (RFD) is a rare, benign oral mucosal condition.
- It presents as a tongue ulceration due to chronic irritation from mandibular incisors, often associated with natal or neonatal teeth.
Observation:
- A 2-month-old infant presented with a 13 mm ventral tongue ulcer and neonatal teeth.
- The ulceration was attributed to traumatic injury from the neonatal teeth.
Findings:
- Extraction of the neonatal teeth was performed.
- The tongue ulceration completely healed within 4 weeks post-extraction.
- Microscopic examination of the extracted teeth was conducted.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis of Riga-Fede disease is crucial.
- Untreated lesions can lead to tongue deformity, dehydration, poor nutrient intake, and growth retardation in infants.
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