PROBLEMS IN THE MOUTH OFFER FIRST CLUES TO HIV INFECTION
40 million people worldwide are living with HIV/ Aids throughout the world. From the onset of the HIV/Aids epidemic, oral health problems were identified as key indicators of the disease. The USC School of Dentistry leads the effort to raise awareness in the importance of oral health. 90 percent of people living with HIV have one or more HIV-associated oral lesions over the course of the disease. “These lesions are often a harbinger for the disease’s progression to full-blown Aids”, says Dr. Veronica Green, Assistant Professor of Clinical Dentistry, USC School of Dentistry. Without the body’s natural defenses, fungi, viruses and bacteria flourish. Green adds, “Access to oral health care, both for the person at risk for HIV infection and the person already living with HIV is critical”.
Fungal Infections - Without the body’s natural defenses, fungi, viruses and bacteria flourish. Typical fungal manifestations include candidiasis also known as thrush, a fungal infection resulting in unsightly creamy white lesions in the mouth.
Viral Infections - Oral warts caused by humanpapilloma virus may be cauliflower like, spiky, raised or flat.
Bacterial Infections - Necrotizing ulcerative periodontitis and necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis are both periodontal diseases and an indicator for severe immune suppression. NUP causes severe pain and bleeding of the gums and leads to rapid destruction of the tissue and bones.
Access to oral health care is key. For the person HIV-positive person who is unaware of his/her condition lack of access to dental care represents a missed opportunity for an early screening, diagnosis and testing for HIV.
The USC School of Dentistry, Special Patients Care Clinic provides HIV/Aids patient with an environment where they feel safe. Prior to beginning any dental treatment, a thorough review of the patient’s medical history is in order. “For the benefit of the patient, we work closely with their physician in providing treatment. A consultation prior to delivering care is important in determining appropriate care and reducing the chance of infection or other complications, adds Greene. Additional precautions can include use of antibiotics to prevent infection or medications to stem bleeding if the patient has a low platelet count. Working hand in hand with medical professionals, dentists are taking a more active role in bringing attention to importance of oral health care as it pertains to HIV and Aids.
