Biologie du développement dentaire

Radiographic evaluation of dental anomalies in patients with congenital Zika virus syndrome

Numerous studies have reported abnormalities in the development of oral structures in congenital infections that also involve microcephaly. In this context, it is necessary to identify possible dental anomalies of shape and/or number in patients with Zika virus syndrome using radiography. The study population consisted of 35 children born with congenital ZIKV who underwent intraoral radiographic examinations for 24 consecutive months. A modified periapical technique was performed in an occlusal position for the maxilla and mandible. Categorical data were expressed as absolute and percentage frequencies and compared using Pearson's Chi-square test, with a 95% confidence interval. Of the entire sample, eight children (22.8%) had dental anomalies of shape and/or number, and four children (11.4%) presented with both anomalies, with agenesis of the upper and lower deciduous/permanent incisors and dental form modifications, such as microdontia and anomalous cusps. When we considered age and sex, there was no statistically significant difference between patients who presented with agenesis and those who presented with modifications. Children with congenital Zika virus syndrome were more likely to have dental modifications in the number and shape of their teeth, and it is essential to implement medium- to long-term monitoring to diagnose other possible alterations throughout the development of the mixed and permanent dentition, favoring their treatment.

Hypophosphatasia: oral cavity and dental disorders

Dental anomalies exist in every subtype of hypophosphatasia (HPP), from the most severe to the most moderate, called odontohypophosphatasia. The forms are defined by the age at onset of the initial symptoms. These anomalies affect all dental mineralized tissues from enamel, dentin and cementum to alveolar bone in a gradient proportional to the severity of the disease. Early loss of the deciduous teeth, before 3 years of age, and then possibly of the permanent teeth, is due to an abnormality of the cementum, the tissue attaching the teeth to alveolar bone, and is the most frequent abnormality. Tooth loss is a very important diagnostic sign and needs to be recognized. Patients with HPP need specialized oral and dental care in coordination with the reference and expert centers. The oral and dental signs and their treatment remain poorly known. The recording of the abnormalities and their treatment in a registry is indispensable in order to enhance patient management and oral and dental health.