Comparison of the relationship between oral findings and salivary parameters and DMFT in patients with lipoid proteinosis and healthy individuals: a case-control study

Background To describe the oral findings of patients diagnosed with lipoid proteinosis and to evaluate the relationship between saliva parameters and caries. Methods Oral findings, unstimulated salivary flow rate, salivary pH, stimulated salivary flow rate, salivary buffering capacity, salivary viscosity, and DMFT score were compared in 22 patients diagnosed with lipoid proteinosis and a control group consisting of age and gender matched healthy individuals. Results Hypodontia, microdontia, and enamel hypoplasia were observed in the intraoral hard tissues of the patients. Limited tongue movement, thickening and hardening of the tongue, and atrophy of the tongue papillae were detected. Thickening of the oral mucosa and lips, wounds/lacerations at the corners of the mouth, and vestibular sulcus insufficiency were detected. There was no significant difference in unstimulated salivary flow rate ( p = 0.620), salivary pH ( p = 0.580), or stimulated salivary flow rate ( p = 0.438) compared to the control group. DMFT values were higher than in the control group ( p = 0.043). There were no statistically significant differences in buffering capacity ( p = 0.296) and saliva viscosity ( p = 0.812) distributions. Conclusion Hypodontia, microdontia, and enamel hypoplasia were observed in the hard tissues of the teeth of lipoid proteinosis. Although the saliva parameters of lipoid proteinosis were normal, DMFT scores were high. Thickening of the oral mucosa, nodular deposits, and restricted tongue movement, although not directly assessed, may plausibly explain the increased caries risk. Preventive strategies in these patients should focus on mechanical plaque removal and regular follow-up. Clinical trial number Not applicable. The study is reported according to the guidelines proposed in the STROBE statements.