COVID-19 and Related Vaccinations in Children: Pathogenic Aspects of Oral Lesions

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination adverse events in children are diverse.
• Oral lesions can be associated with systemic conditions, making specific diagnosis challenging.
• Limited literature exists on oral lesions in pediatric populations related to SARS-CoV-2 and vaccination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize reported oral lesions in pediatric subjects post-SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• To detail clinical features and pathogenic aspects of oral lesions following COVID-19 vaccination in children.
• To highlight the need for further research into these oral manifestations.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of existing literature.
• Collection and synthesis of reported findings on oral lesions in pediatric SARS-CoV-2 positive subjects.
• Analysis of oral lesions in children following administration of EMA-authorized and WHO EUL-approved COVID-19 vaccines.

Main Results:

• Most common oral lesions in pediatric SARS-CoV-2 patients were erosive-ulcerative and macules/petechiae, often erythematous.
• Oral adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccination in children were infrequent.
• Vaccine-related oral lesions typically presented as erosive-ulcerative, EM-like, or unspecified patterns.

Conclusions:

• Oral lesions in pediatric COVID-19 patients and post-vaccination are often nonspecific.
• Further investigation is crucial, considering viral variants and new vaccine developments.
• Improved understanding can enhance multidisciplinary pediatric oral and general care.