Oral manifestations of systemic disorders – part 1

Oral tissues can be subject to change or damage because of a disorder that predominantly affects other body systems.Such oral manifestations of systemic disorders can be highly variable in both frequency and presentation.Oral manifestations of systemic disorders may present as initial symptoms of an acute or chronic systemic condition and can precede years before systemic symptoms appear and diagnosis of the disease.Additionally, pathological processes in the oral mucosa, jaws and related structures can impact the patient's overall health.As lifespan increases and medical care becomes ever more complex and effective, it is likely that the numbers of individuals with oral manifestations of systemic disorders will continue to rise.It is important that potential oral manifestations of systemic disorders are managed quickly and appropriately to improve the patient's quality of life.Oral manifestations may be the first evidence of an underlying systemic disease and may accompany or precede the diagnosis of the disease.The general dentist thus plays an essential role in the detection and referral of patients with possible systemic diseases.When oral findings are accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhea and intestinal symptoms, this should alert the dentist to quickly refer the patient for further medical management.Dental follow-up in collaboration with the treatment team is important since exacerbation of oral manifestations may indicate increased disease activity.The oral cavity and orofacial region can exhibit signs and symptoms indicative of a systemic disorder, whether preexisting, newly discovered or during the course of the disease.These manifestations may present as initial symptoms of an acute or chronic systemic condition and can precede years before systemic symptoms appear and diagnosis of the disease.Worsening of an existing disease may cause oral manifestations and symptoms.Additionally, pathological processes in the oral mucosa, jaws and related structures can im-HEADLINES • Oral manifestations may be the first sign of a systemic condition or disease • Clinical recognition of oral manifestations related to systemic diseases may be difficult and can delay diagnosis • Oral conditions related to the treatment of systemic diseases are clinically important to recognize • Oral health personnel should be educated to be able to identify and diagnose and manage oral manifestations of systemic diseases and conditions in a timely manner