Fungiform Papillae and Gustatory Function in Neurofibromatosis Type 1: A Case-Control Study.

Area of Science:

• Oral pathology
• Genetics
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic disorder characterized by various oral manifestations.
• Enlargement of fungiform papillae is a recognized, yet understudied, oral sign in NF1 patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To objectively assess fungiform papillae size, number, and symmetry in individuals with NF1.
• To explore the relationship between these papillae alterations and taste perception, salivary function, diet, and BMI in NF1.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involved 80 participants (40 with NF1, 40 controls), matched for age and sex.
• Methods included quantitative/morphological papillae evaluation, gustatory tests, sialometry, saliva analysis, xerostomia assessment, dietary evaluation, and BMI calculation.

Main Results:

• NF1 patients showed significantly larger, more asymmetric fungiform papillae compared to controls.
• NF1 group exhibited higher sweet/sour taste detection thresholds, hyposalivation, and lower preference for healthy foods.
• No significant correlation was found between papillae morphology and taste sensitivity, saliva properties, xerostomia, food preferences, or BMI in NF1.

Conclusions:

• Enlarged/asymmetric fungiform papillae, hyposalivation, altered taste sensitivity, and reduced healthy eating are common in NF1.
• Fungiform papillae changes in NF1 may not directly correlate with taste perception or dietary habits.
• Further research is necessary to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of these oral alterations in NF1.