Intergroup comparisons of oral lesions in HIV-positive South Africans

To determine whether there are any differences in the oral manifestations of sub-groups of persons with HIV. These data could provide information for planning of oral health promotion and prevention programmes.

A comparative inter-group cross-sectional investigation of the oral manifestations of HIV. Ethnic, gender and sexual orientation differences were taken into consideration.

Three large general hospitals that offer comprehensive medical investigations and care to persons with HIV.

A total of 485 HIV-positive adults participated. Clinical examination and, where necessary, swabs or smears of lesions for microbiology, biopsies for histology.

Presence of lesions, associated signs, incidence and type of micro-organisms.

A total of 485 HIV-positive persons were examined over a period of 3 years consisting of 225 Blacks, 191 Coloureds (persons of 'mixed' descent) and 69 Whites. Data were analysed using, where relevant, the chi 2 test or Fisher's exact test. Heterosexual males revealed a higher prevalence of all oral lesions combined when compared with heterosexual females. A similar finding was evident when HIV-associated periodontal diseases was compared in these two groups. Homosexual males had a higher prevalence of candidal infections than heterosexual males. Coloured heterosexuals had a higher prevalence of oral lesions combined than black heterosexuals. All these results showed statistical significance.

The study tends to show that different patterns of prevalence emerge when inter-group comparisons are made of oral soft tissue diseases evident in HIV-infected South Africans.