Oral Complications of the Myeloproliferative Diseases

The mouth may be the site of the earliest signs and symptoms of myeloproliferative disease. Minor infections of the mouth in these patients can lead to extensive cellulitis or septicemia if not treated promptly. Hemorrhagic complications occur most often in diseases associated with thrombocytopenia. In some patients, petechiae of the palate, buccal mucosa, or floor of the mouth are the only evidence of bleeding. Regular, careful examination of the oral cavity is an important part of the management of these patients.