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Updated: Oct 13, 2025

Isolation, Characterization and Functional Examination of the Gingival Immune Cell Network
Published on: February 16, 2016
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia presenting as gingival swelling and tooth mobility
Ahmad A Hamdan1, Philippe Bouchard2, Ahmad I Hamdan3
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral Medicine and Periodontology, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
Oral manifestations like gingival swelling and tooth mobility can indicate Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL). This case highlights the importance of considering systemic diseases in dental diagnoses.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Oral Medicine
Background:
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is a prevalent B-cell malignancy in developed nations.
- CLL involves the monoclonal proliferation of CD5+ B-cells, leading to lymphocyte accumulation.
- Oral manifestations of CLL are uncommon and infrequently documented.
Observation:
- A 67-year-old male presented with tooth mobility and gingival swelling.
- Physical examination revealed cutaneous pallor and bilateral cervical lymphadenopathy.
- Blood tests showed leukocytosis with marked lymphocytosis (88%) and mild thrombocytopenia.
Findings:
- Flow cytometry confirmed CLL, identifying monoclonal B-lymphocytes expressing characteristic markers (CD19, CD20, CD23, CD5, etc.).
- The patient's presentation included leukocytosis, lymphocytosis, and specific B-cell immunophenotypes.
- Diagnosis of CLL was established based on clinical, hematological, and immunophenotypic findings.
Implications:
- Oral healthcare professionals should consider CLL in the differential diagnosis of unexplained tooth mobility and gingival swelling.
- Associated symptoms like lymphadenopathy, fever, weight loss, and fatigue warrant systemic evaluation.
- Early recognition of oral signs can lead to timely diagnosis and management of CLL.
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