[HIV-associated periodontal lesions].

Abstract

During HIV infection different lesions may occur in the area of the gingiva and/or the periodontium. An increased frequency and severity of periodontal diseases has been observed. Different forms of Candida albicans infection have been clinically characterized as pseudomembranous, erythematous (atrophic) or hyperplastic form or as papillary variant. While infection with Candida albicans may occur frequently in other areas of the oral mucosa, candidiasis of the gingiva seems to be quite rare. Due to the underlying immunodeficiency, HIV-infected patients are prone to infection with and/or reactivation of different viruses, which may cause oral lesions as well. Recurrent progressive ulcerations may occur due to herpes simplex virus 1/2, while ulcerations with a punched-out appearance may result from disseminated CMV infection. Oral Kaposi's sarcoma may clinically present as bluish or red spots, which may increase into exophytic tumors during the progress of the disease.