[Oral manifestations in leukemic children and their diagnostic value]

Leukemia is the most common form of cancer in childhood. The disease is characterized by a high incidence of oral complications at diagnosis and during subsequent treatment. Oral complications can be divided in three groups. Primary lesions are induced by the infiltration of the oral structures by malignant cells: gingival infiltration and infiltration of bony oral structures. Secondary lesions are the result of the myelophthisic character of the disease. This group contains symptoms of anemia, increased bleeding tendency and increased susceptibility to infections. Tertiary lesions are induced by the antileukemic treatment patients receive. Direct and indirect cytotoxic effects can be distinguished. This article reviews the different oral manifestations, describes the most prominent characteristics of the different oral symptoms and demonstrates the importance of early and correct recognition of these symptoms for the oncologist. This can be important for diagnosis of the disease, but also for prevention and treatment of complications during the subsequent treatment. Dentists and stomatologists can contribute to a better prognosis and a reduction of morbidity and mortality of this disease.