Unusual Periodontal Findings in an AIDS Patient With Burkitt's Lymphoma

Abstract

The rapid spread of the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) since it first appeared in 1981 has not only created concern among the general population, but has resulted in drastic changes in life styles and the manner in which medical and dental treatment is performed. 1 The disease is characterized by irreversible suppression of the immune system, particularly the lymphocyte which is responsible for modulating the immune system.2 In 1983, the causative agent was identified as a retrovirus and was subsequently given the delineation of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).3 A number of oral and perioral conditions associated with the HIV infection have been noted. Among these are oral candidiasis, Kaposi sarcoma, and herpes simplex infection. Hairy leukoplakia, which first appears on the lateral borders of the tongue, is thought to represent a unique, early, oral feature of this disease. Oral warts caused by the papilloma virus may also occur in HIV infected patients, as do tumors of suspected viral origin such as lymphomas.2'4"9 More recently, gingivitides related to the HIV infection and a rapidly destructive form of periodontal disease have been described in patients with and without tumors.8"10 This paper presents a case of AIDS associated with Burkitt's lymphoma in which the patient presented himself initially with distinctive oral and periodontal findings.