Oral manifestations in human immunodeficiency virus infected children in highly active antiretroviral therapy era

HAART medication and oral health status in children and adolescent HIV infected: A case control study

BACKGROUND

The advent of Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy (HAART) does influence the overall oral health care of children. The children undergoing HAART have shown an increase in caries activity owing to sugars in medicines to make them more palatable.

AIM

The aim of the study was to assess and compare the Oral Health of Children Living with HIV/AIDS (CLHAs) and Adolescents Living with HIV/AIDS (ALHAs) undergoing HAART and those who are HAART-naïve.

METHODS

This study was carried out at different Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO's) across Kerala, India. The study group consisted of 150 HIV-infected children aged 6-18 years. They were divided into two groups. Group 1 comprised of children prior to onset of HAART and Group 2 included children who had been on HAART for more than 3 years (HAART naïve). The assessment of dental caries status and dental plaque status was done. The observations were tabulated and statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

On Statistical Analysis, significant difference was noted between the groups with the Group 1(2.26 ± 0.58;p value = .000*) showing higher scores of dental plaque and a significant difference was also observed with respect to dental caries scores with DMFT and dmft scores higher in Group 2(dmft 2.08 ± 2.85; p value = .001* and DMFT 4.10 ± 1.71;p value = .003*).

CONCLUSION

It was concluded that oral hygiene conditions were poor in children with HIV, with dental plaque scores more in HAART-naïve which may be due to their lesser visits and reinforcements regarding oral hygiene from a dentist and dental caries score more in HAART group, this may be attributed to the hidden sugars present in HAART medications to make it more palatable. Early recognition and management of oral conditions are important to improve the quality of life for these children.

Dental caries in HIV-infected children and adolescents: A systematic review with meta-analysis

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the risk of dental caries in between human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected and uninfected children and adolescents. An electronic search was performed on PubMed/MEDLINE, Web-of-Science, Scopus, LILACS, ProQuest, and ClinicalTrials.gov up to May 2022. The critical appraisal checklist developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Meta-analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.4. Sixteen studies were included. A total of 3231 participants were evaluated, including 1701 and 1530 HIV-infected and uninfected children and adolescents, respectively. The meta-analysis revealed a higher risk of dental caries for primary dentitions in HIV-infected children and adolescents by decayed, missing, filled tooth (dmft) (SMD:0.34; p = 0.006) and decayed, missing, filled surface (dmfs) scores (SMD:0.37; p = 0.001). Similar results were observed for permanent dentition, with increased dental caries in HIV-infected children and adolescents with DMFT (SMD:0.32; p = 0.003) and DMFS (SMD:1.78; p < 0.0001) scores. Regarding the quality assessment, most of the included studies were moderate or good quality. However, the certainty of the evidence of the outcomes was very low. This systematic review and meta-analysis showed higher caries severity in permanent and deciduous teeth among HIV-infected children and adolescents.

Oral Diseases and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life among Kenyan Children and Adolescents with HIV

INTRODUCTION

Children and adolescents living with HIV (CALHIV) have a higher risk of hard and soft oral tissue diseases as compared with their healthy peers. It is important to increase awareness regarding the need to integrate oral health within medical care among pediatric HIV populations. Studies on associations of oral diseases with oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in CALHIV are lacking. This study examined the association between oral diseases and OHRQoL in Kenyan CALHIV.

METHODS

This cross-sectional analysis was nested in a longitudinal cohort study of CALHIV in Nairobi. CALHIV received oral examinations, and the World Health Organization's Oral Health Surveys and Record Form was administered. OHRQoL was measured with the Parental-Caregiver Perceptions Questionnaire, with the subdomains of global, oral symptoms, function limitations, and emotional and social well-being, with higher scores indicating poorer OHRQoL. Linear regression was used to model associations between OHRQoL and oral diseases, adjusting for age at the time of oral examination, CD4 counts, and caregiver's education.

RESULTS

Among 71 CALHIV, the mean age was 12.6 y (SD, 2.9; range, 10 to <21), and the mean composite OHRQoL score was 12.6 (SD, 11.2). Ulcers (not herpes simplex virus or aphthous) were associated with the worst overall OHRQoL (mean, 21.8; SD, 11.1; P = 0.055) and oral symptoms subdomain (mean, 7.0, SD, 2.5; P = 0.003). Children with dry mouth and untreated caries had significantly higher mean global OHRQoL scores than those without disease (P < 0.0001). In the multivariate analysis, the OHRQoL composite score was 6.3 units (95% CI, -0.3 to 12.9) higher for those who had dry mouth and untreated dental caries; dry mouth accounted for the highest percentage of variability of OHRQoL (9.6%) and the global subdomain (31.9%). Ulcers accounted for the highest percentage of variability of the oral symptoms domain (15.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

Oral ulcers, dry mouth, and untreated caries were associated with poorer OHRQoL in CALHIV. Integrating oral health into the primary care of CALHIV may improve their OHRQoL.

KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER STATEMENT

This study aimed to determine the association of oral diseases with the oral health-related quality of life of children and adolescents living with HIV (CALHIV). The findings will form part of the evidence to incorporate oral health protocols into care programs for CALHIV. Oral health monitoring has the potential to increase the surveillance of HIV clinical status, monitor the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy, and improve the oral health-related quality of life of CALHIV.

HIV-Associated Interactions Between Oral Microbiota and Mucosal Immune Cells: Knowledge Gaps and Future Directions

Even with sustained use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV-infected individuals have an increased risk of systemic comorbid conditions and oral pathologies, including opportunistic infections, oral mucosal inflammation, and gingival and periodontal diseases. The immune-mediated mechanisms that drive this increased risk, in the context of sustained viral suppression, are unclear. HIV infection, even when controlled, alters microbial communities contributing to a chronic low-grade inflammatory state that underlies these non-HIV co-morbidities. The higher prevalence of dental caries, and mucosal and periodontal inflammation reported in HIV-infected individuals on ART is often associated with differentially abundant oral microbial communities, possibly leading to a heightened susceptibility to inflammation. This mini-review highlights current gaps in knowledge regarding the microbe-mediated oral mucosal immunity with HIV infection while discussing opportunities for future research investigations and implementation of novel approaches to elucidate these gaps. Interventions targeting both inflammation and microbial diversity are needed to mitigate oral inflammation-related comorbidities, particularly in HIV-infected individuals. More broadly, additional research is needed to bolster general models of microbiome-mediated chronic immune activation and aid the development of precise microbiota-targeted interventions to reverse or mitigate adverse outcomes.

Prevalence of oral mucosal lesions in human immunodeficiency virus-infected children attending the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Clinic in Cape Town

Objective

Investigation of the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected children undergoing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

Materials and Methods

Cross‐sectional study of 66 HIV seropositive children, comprised of 28 (42.4%) females and 38 (57.6%) males (average age of 6 years). Study participants all required data regarding CD4+ T‐helper cell counts and the viral load. All participants underwent an orofacial clinical examination by calibrated clinicians. Associations between the presence of oral mucosal lesions, CD4+ cell counts, and viral load were analyzed using Poisson regression.

Results

The prevalence of oral manifestations was detected in 21 children (31.8%). Oral lesions were detected in 16 children with viral load copies <50 cells/mm³ and 22 children with CD4+ counts >500 cells/mm³. Predominant lesions identified included angular cheilitis (36.7%), candidiasis (13.3%) and atypical oral ulcers (13.3%). The presence of one lesion was the most prevalent represented by 19 children. Oral lesions in relation to the CD4+ counts >500 resulted in; 14 children with one oral lesion, 5 with two lesions and 3 with three oral mucosal lesions. The other half of this CD4+ count patient group presented with no oral mucosal lesions. Oral lesions in relation Viral load copies <50 resulted in; 9 children with one oral lesion, 3 with two oral mucosal lesions and 4 with three oral mucosal lesions. The other half of this Viral load patient group presented with no oral mucosal lesions. No significant correlations were established between the presence of oral mucosal lesions and low CD4+ counts (p = 0.715) nor with high viral load counts (p = 0.638).

Conclusion

HIV‐related oral mucosal lesions still presented in the participants despite management with HAART. Based on the results, CD4+ counts and viral load does not appear to be suitable markers of orofacial involvement in children.

Oral Health Status of Young People Infected with HIV in High Epidemic Area of China

Purpose

This study aimed to understand the oral hygiene habits and oral health status of young people infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Henan province of China.

Methods

Randomized stratified cluster sampling strategy was used to select young people who were receiving highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HARRT) from 6 towns. A total of 104 participants were enrolled and divided into 2 groups, adolescence group and young adult group. By face-to-face oral interview and examination, well-trained dentists collected general information, oral hygiene habits and oral health status of the participants.

Results

Fifty-eight of them were adolescence group and 46 of them were young adult group. In two groups, most of them brushed their teeth once a day (55.20%, 67.40%), and half of them basically brushed their teeth for 2 minutes (51.7%, 50.0%). Majority of participants did not use dental floss (93.1%,91.3%) and also never visited a dentist (81%,78.3%). One-third of participants had spontaneous bleeding, and about half of them had gingival bleeding when brushed their teeth. The most frequent mucosal disease was oral ulcers. Moreover, the prevalence of caries remained very high in both groups, which was 82.76% and 84.8%, respectively. Most of the participants in both groups had low education level and received less than 9 years of education (65.5%, 63%).

Conclusion

The participants had poor oral hygiene habits. The economic and education level may associate with the awareness of oral health and care.

Oral status of HIV-infected children aged 12 years or younger who attended a Paediatric Infectious Diseases Clinic in Cape Town

BACKGROUND

Children continue to suffer from the impact of the human immunodeficiency virus-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) pandemic. In Cape Town, these children receive medical care including antiretroviral therapy from facilities like Tygerberg Hospital's Paediatric Infectious Diseases Clinic. HIV-infected children may experience an increased caries experience when compared with their healthy peers.

AIM

The aim of this study was to determine the oral health status of HIV-infected children younger than 12 years receiving antiviral drugs at the Paediatric Infectious Diseases Clinic.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among children aged between 2 and 12 years presenting at this clinic. Caregivers were interviewed to obtain information regarding health seeking behaviour, oral hygiene practices and dietary habits. A single clinician undertook a standardized clinical intraoral examination according to the World Health Organization guidelines, with modifications.

RESULTS

Sixty-six children were recruited. A high prevalence of dental caries (78.8%) and an unmet treatment need of 90.4% were recorded among the participants. Most children had never visited the dentist, and those who did had mainly received emergency dental care.

CONCLUSION

The high prevalence of severe dental caries in this population highlights the need for oral health awareness and the inclusion of oral health care in the comprehensive care of children with HIV.

WHY THIS PAPER IS IMPORTANT TO PAEDIATRIC DENTISTS

The study highlights the importance of collaborating with health professions outside of dentistry. Doctors and nurses are often the first health professionals to come into contact with children with special needs. They should therefore be made aware of the early signs of decay so that these patients can be referred for dental treatment timeously. Holistic management of children with special healthcare needs is essential to improve their overall well-being.

Oral Manifestations in HIV-Positive Children: A Systematic Review

Background: The number of pediatric patients affected by HIV still remains high, mainly in developing countries, where the main cause of infection is vertical transmission from the mother. Even today, a large number of these children do not have access to treatment, and, without proper care, they die in the first few years of life. Objective: The aim of our review was to assess the prevalence of oral hard and soft tissue lesions in HIV-positive pediatric patients by identifying the most common manifestations and the overall impact that they may have on the children’s quality of life. Study design: A systematic review of the articles in the English language in PubMed and Scopus was conducted in March 2019 in order to identify the main epidemiological and cross-sectional studies on the topic. Results: Oral diseases are still one of the most common manifestations in HIV-positive pediatric patients, and they often represent the first form in which immunosuppression shows itself. An analysis of the literature shows that candidiasis is the most common oral lesion found in HIV-positive children. A significant incidence of gingivitis and gingival disease is also evident, though not strictly correlated to HIV infection. However, thanks to the introduction of new antiretroviral therapies, the incidence of HIV-related oral lesions is decreasing. Conclusions: An HIV-positive children care program should also include dental protocols, as oral disease negatively influences the quality of life, affecting both functional and social aspects.

The burden of oral conditions among adolescents living with HIV at a clinic in Johannesburg, South Africa

Background

There are inconsistent reports on the prevalence of oral conditions and their associated factors among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV). The current inconsistencies may hinder the development of clear guidelines on the prevention and treatment of oral conditions among ALHIV. This study provides an update on oral conditions and their associated factors in a cohort of South African ALHIV and receiving routine HIV treatment services at a Johannesburg HIV wellness clinic.

Methods

Decayed Teeth (DT), Decayed Missing and Filled Teeth (DMFT) and Oral HIV/AIDS Research Alliance case definitions were used for caries examination and reporting of the Oral Mucosal Lesions (OML) respectively. Data analyses were stratified by the study main outcomes; chi-squared tests were performed to determine the associations; and multiple logistic regressions were also used to identify associated factors after adjusting for other exposure variables. In addition to fitting logistic regressions, we explored the data for potential confounders and effect modifiers.

Results

A total of 407 ALHIV were assessed, of which 51.0% were females. The mean age of the ALHIV was 14.75 years (SD 2.43) while the median age of their parents was 43 years (IQR 37–48 years). Regardless of sex, age group and other socio-demographic characteristics, participants had high count of dental caries (DMFT>0). The overall prevalence of dental caries was 56.76% (n = 231) with mean DT score of 2.0 (SD 2.48) and mean DMFT score of 2.65 (SD 3.01). Dental caries prevalence (DT>0) was significantly associated with the HIV clinical markers. HIV RNA viral loads more than 1000 copies/ml and CD4 cell counts less than 200 count cells/mm³, increased the likelihood of having dental decay among ALHIV (p<0.05). ALHIV at WHO staging III, IV had higher caries prevalence ranging from 70% to 75% (p<0.05). The prevalence of dental caries was directly related to the presence of oral mucosal lesions (p<0.05). The prevalence of OML was 22%, with linear gingival erythema (13.8%) accounting for most of the OML. Multiple logistic regression modelling suggested that dental caries experience (DMFT>0), age category 13–15 years, WHO staging of IV and viral load of more than 1000 copies/ml significantly predicted the outcome of oral lesions as assessed using the OHARA case definitions (p<0.05). The odds of developing dental caries was also 1.5 times more among ALHIV who brush their teeth less frequently and those who reported more frequent eating of sugar sweetened diets (p<0.05).

Conclusions

There is high prevalence of dental caries and OML among ALHIV in Johannesburg. The reported prevalence was associated with high HIV RNA viral loads, shorter duration on antiretroviral treatment and high WHO staging of HIV disease on crude analysis. Additionally, caries experience contributed to the prevalence of OML. Our study acknowledges the protective effect of HIV treatment and positive oral health practices on the presence of oral conditions among ALHIV in Johannesburg.

Pediatric Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Otolaryngologic Manifestations: An Analysis of Hospital Admissions From 1997 to 2012

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Many human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected pediatric patients develop otolaryngologic disease. We aimed to characterize their otolaryngologic manifestations by type and demographic variation, and model temporal trends.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort review.

METHODS

A retrospective review utilizing the Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) was conducted. International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes for HIV and otolaryngologic diagnoses were used to query data from the triennially published KID files from 1997 to 2012. A subset analysis of infectious versus non-infectious admitting otolaryngologic diagnoses was conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 11,150 cases met the inclusion criteria. Of these cases, 21.8% were admitted for otolaryngologic manifestations, with 18.0% presenting with infectious symptomatology, 4.8% with noninfectious disease, and 1.0% with both. On average, patients presenting with infectious disease were younger (8.17 years vs. 9.65 years, P < .001). Patients in the South were significantly more likely to be admitted for infection (54.8% vs. 42.0%, P < .001), with non-infectious predominance in the Northeast and West. HIV-infected children in 1997 were more likely to present with infectious otolaryngologic disease (56.3% vs. 45.8%, P < .001); however, there has been a decrease in the prevalence of infectious head and neck presentations (46.5%, 19.9%, 11.5%, 6.7%, 3.7%, and 1.9% from 1997 to 2012), and a gradual shift toward noninfectious manifestation with notable differences in 2000 and 2012 (19.9% vs. 25.2%; P = .017; and 1.9% vs. 4.8%, P < .001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Otolaryngologic disease accounts for nearly one-fifth of hospitalizations in HIV-infected children; however, rates of hospitalization as well as otolaryngologic manifestations have progressively decreased over time. HIV-infected children nowadays are more likely to present with noninfectious rather than infectious disease.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 129:E377-E382, 2019.

Most common oral manifestations in pediatric patients HIV positive and the effect of highly active antiretroviral therapy

This integrative literature review aims to identify the main oral lesions affecting pediatric patients with HIV, and describe the effect of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on these injuries, comparing it to antiretroviral therapy (ART). A search was conducted in PubMed and Scielo databases, following predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. 19 papers were selected and the main information on the prevalence and frequency of oral manifestations in HIV-positive pediatric patients and effect of therapy applied were extracted. The most frequent injuries were oral candidiasis, gingivitis, parotid gland enlargement and linear gingival erythema. The use of HAART shown to reduce the prevalence of oral manifestations in pediatric patients with HIV and be more effective than ART. The findings of this study suggest that the most frequent oral manifestation in HIV-infected children is oral candidiasis, followed by changes such as gingivitis and enlargement parotid glands. The use of HAART appears to reduce the prevalence of these oral lesions, showing more effective results than ART.

[Prevalence of DNA viruses in maxillofacial area of HIV-infected]

DNA viruses have high oncogenic risk viruses; they cause emergence of Kaposi sarcoma, Lymphoma, Squamous cell carcinoma. HIV immunodeficiency promotes increase in frequency of such tumors. Etiotropic therapy of HIV patients considerably reduces prevalence of DNA viruses and a viral malignization.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection: Does Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy Influence Ear Nose Throat Manifestations?

To study the change in trend of ear, nose and throat (ENT) manifestations in patients who were on treatment, before and after availability of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). To find out the prevalence of ENT manifestations in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected people who were on treatment, in the year of 2004 (before the availability of HAART) and in 2014 (after the availability of HAART). Design A combination of a retrospective and prospective study. Setting Anti Retroviral Therapy (ART) Center at Our Hospital. Subjects Patients with HIV infection on ART. Methods Retrospective review of case records of the patients visiting the center in the year 2004 and prospective study of the patients visiting in the year 2014 was conducted. Sample size was calculated as 200 in each group based on 95% confidence and 96% power. Convenience sampling was used in our study. The prevalence of ENT manifestations in HIV patients were found to be 86% in 2004 and 93% in 2014. Among ENT manifestations oropharyngeal manifestations were most common. Lesser the CD4 count more was the prevalence of disorders in oropharynx. Our study showed a high prevalence of ENT manifestations in HIV patients who were on treatment, irrespective of the gap of 10 years and introduction of HAART therapy. Most common ENT manifestation both in 2004 and 2014 was oropharyngeal candidiasis. Lesser the CD4 count more was the prevalence of disorders in oropharynx.

Oral status and periodontal microbiota of HIV-infected youth infected by vertical transmission

Aim: This study evaluated the oral status and microbiota of HIV+ youth infected by vertical transmission. Materials & methods: 34 HIV+ and 36 HIV- individuals (14–24 years of age) were examined for oral infections/lesions. Subgingival biofilm was collected and the microbiota determined by checkerboard DNA–DNA hybridization. Results: Over 90% of the HIV+ youth were under highly active antiretroviral therapy, but 64.6% had AIDS and 47% presented oral manifestations. HIV+ youth showed more periodontal attachment loss and inflammation than HIV- (p < 0.05), and also high prevalence of caries. Most species were detected in higher prevalence in the microbiota of HIV+ than controls. Conclusion: HIV+ youth infected by vertical transmission presented more periodontal destruction and inflammation, and greater prevalence of microbial pathogens compared with HIV- individuals.

The child and adolescent with HIV in resource poor countries

Although sub-Saharan Africa caries the burden of paediatric and adult HIV/AIDS infections, the epidemic is spreading most rapidly in the Middle East and North Africa Region where between 2005 and 2013, AIDS-related deaths increased by 66% in comparison with a worldwide fall of 35%. For the first time, in 2011, more than half of people in need of antiretroviral drugs were receiving them, with coverage reaching 54%; yet only 28% of children have access to HIV treatment. This review sought to provide an update of paediatric and adolescent oral HIV/AIDS issues in resource poor countries.

OBJECTIVES

To review the literature on paediatric & adolescent HIV with a focus on oral lesions as predictors of HIV infection; as markers of the efficacy of HAART and quality of life; caries risk; management of oral lesions; and epidemiological tests for clinical significance of oral lesions.

METHODS

A search strategy was developed for PubMed to identify papers on paediatric oral HIV. Publications in English were selected on the basis that their titles and abstracts were relevant to the review objectives. The reference lists of included papers were screened for additional articles. The time-search for publications was limited from 2009 to 15 October 2014.

RESULTS

Papers on the prevalence of oral lesions lacked standardization in diagnostic criteria and the introduction of HAART had significantly reduced prevalence; oral lesions remain useful predictors for HIV infection and as markers for the efficacy of HAART. Evidence suggest that caries risk is increased with HIV infection; management of oral lesions is inconsistent with available resources and surprisingly little recent information has been published in the past 5 years. Revised case definitions are proposed for large-scale epidemiologic studies with the development of an oral lesion index showing promise. Oral health quality of life indicators for children and adolescents are becoming important as more of these indicators are being developed and their negative oral impacts in individuals with oral lesions are now well established.

CONCLUSIONS

Paediatric and adolescent oral HIV research needs to be prioritized as current studies are few and are characterized by poor quality study designs, small study samples and a lack of multicentre collaborations. There is a lack of high quality evidence for a number of interventions available for management of oral lesions.

Is dental caries experience increased in HIV-infected children and adolescents? A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To undertake a systematic review to assess if HIV-infected children and adolescents have an increased dental caries experience.

METHODS

A search of MEDLINE, BIREME, EMBASE, GOOGLE SCHOLAR, SIGLE (Grey Literature) and reference lists of included studies was carried out. To be eligible the studies had to present HIV-infected and non-infected children/adolescents between 0-18 years old. To assess the methodological quality, the studies were categorized in scores from 'A' to 'C'. To perform a meta-analysis a random effect model was used with 95% confidence intervals and two distinct sub-group analyses were carried out in terms of caries progression: data for cavitated and non-cavitated lesions (sub-group 1) and data only for cavitated lesions (sub-group 2).

RESULTS

Five studies fulfilled the selection criteria. Four studies (two ranked A and two B in the quality assessment) revealed higher caries scores in primary teeth in the HIV-infected patients with mean dmft/dmfs scores of 3.8-4.1/7.8-11.0 compared to the control group 1.5-2.4/3.4-5.1. No differences in caries index were found for permanent dentition. The meta-analysis excluded caries data of permanent teeth and showed a significant association between caries experience in primary dentition and HIV infection considering cavitated and non-cavitated lesions (OR = 2.33, 95% CI = 1.48-3.68) or only cavitated lesions (OR = 2.98, 95% CI = 1.59-5.59).

CONCLUSION

Evidence exists that suggests HIV-infected children/adolescents have an increased caries experience in primary dentition.

Oral health status and its impact on the quality of life of children and adolescents living with HIV-1

Background

Oral health problems can generate considerable negative effects on the quality of life of individuals living with HIV. The aim of this study was investigate the oral health status and its impact on the quality of life of 1 to 18 years-old living with HIV-1 under follow-up at referral centers in Southern Brazil.

Methods

A cross-sectional study involving individuals under follow-up (n = 36) was carried out. The individuals living with HIV-1 and their guardians underwent individual interviews using validated questionnaires for assessing oral health-related quality of life according to age group. Clinical oral examinations were performed to establish oral health status, in terms of caries and treatment need, HIV-1-related gingival as well as stomatological changes. Medical records were reviewed searching for clinical history of the infection and the presence of HIV-1-related diseases. Association studies between frequent/very frequent oral health-related impact on quality of life and independent variables were performed using Fisher’s exact test.

Results

The prevalence of frequent/very frequent oral health-related impact on quality of life was 69.0%. The prevalence of caries was 75.9%. Gingival changes were present in 20.7% of the individuals. Dental treatment was needed in 72.4% of the patients. HIV-1-related disease was present in 55.2%. The variables significantly associated with the prevalence of frequent/very frequent impact on oral health-related quality of life were dental treatment need (p = 0.037) and being more than 12 years of age (p = 0.041).

Conclusions

Individuals living with HIV-1 with need for dental treatment and those over 12-years of age reported a statistically higher frequency of frequent/very frequent oral health-related impact on quality of life.

Associated oral lesions in human immunodefeciency virus infected children of age 1 to 14 years in anti retroviral therapy centers in Tamil Nadu

Aim:

To evaluate the prevalence of oral lesions status in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected children of age 1 to 14 years in Anti Retro viral therapy (ART) centres in Tamil Nadu.

Materials and Methods:

A of total 326 HIV infected children, age 1 to 14 years of which 174 male children and 152 female children were examined for Oral lesions in the Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, Rajah Muthiah Dental College and Hospital, Annamalai University in association with the ART centers in Villupuram, Vellore and HIV Homes in Thiruvannamalai, Trichy and Salem in Tamil Nadu towns.

Statistical Analysis:

Statistical Package for Social Science for Windows (version 11 code: 3000135939012345).

Result:

Of the total 326 children, 201 (61.65%) had oral lesions. (68 [20.86%] with Oral Candidiasis [OC], 54 [16.56%] with Angular Cheilitis, 27 [8.28%] with Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis [NUG], 25 [7.66%] with Necrotizing Ulcerative Periodontitis [NUP], 18 [5.53%] with Linear Gingival Erythema [LGE] and 9 [2.76%] with Apthous Ulcer.) Conclusion Among the oral lesions in HIV infected children, OC 20.86% was the predominant oral lesion followed by Angular Chelitis 16.56%, NUG 8.28%, NUP 7.66%, LGE5.53% and Apthous Ulcer 2.76%.

Oral lesions among HIV-infected children on antiretroviral treatment in West Africa

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the prevalence of oral mucosal diseases and dental caries among HIV-infected children receiving antiretroviral treatment (ART) in West Africa and to identify the factors associated with the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions.

METHODS

Multicentre cross-sectional survey in five paediatric HIV clinics in Côte d'Ivoire, Mali and Sénégal. A standardised examination was performed by trained dentists on a random sample of HIV-infected children aged 5-15 years receiving ART. The prevalence of oral and dental lesions and mean number of decayed, missing/extracted and filled teeth (DMFdefT) in temporary and permanent dentition were estimated with their 95% confidence interval (95% CI). We used logistic regression to explore the association between children's characteristics and the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions, expressed as prevalence odds ratio (POR).

RESULTS

The median age of the 420 children (47% females) enrolled was 10.4 years [interquartile range (IQR) = 8.3-12.6]. The median duration on ART was 4.6 years (IQR = 2.6-6.2); 84 (20.0%) had CD4 count<350 cells/mm(3). A total of 35 children (8.3%; 95% CI: 6.1-11.1) exhibited 42 oral mucosal lesions (24 were candidiasis); 86.0% (95% CI = 82.6-89.3) of children had DMFdefT ≥ 1. The presence of oral mucosal lesions was independently associated with CD4 count < 350 cells/mm(3) (POR = 2.96, 95% CI = 1.06-4.36) and poor oral hygiene (POR = 2.69, 95% CI = 1.07-6.76).

CONCLUSIONS

Oral mucosal lesions still occur in HIV-infected African children despite ART, but rarely. However, dental caries were common and severe in this population, reflecting the need to include oral health in the comprehensive care of HIV.

Current status of herpesvirus identification in the oral cavity of HIV-infected children

INTRODUCTION

Some viruses of the Herpesviridae family are frequently the etiologic agents of oral lesions associated with HIV. The aim of this study was to identify the presence of herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1, HSV-2), Varicella Zoster virus (VZV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), human herpesvirus type 6, type 7 and type 8 (HHV-6, HHV-7 and HHV-8) in the oral cavity of HIV-infected children/adolescents and verify the association between viral subtypes and clinical factors.

METHODS

The cells of oral mucosa were collected from 50 HIV infected children/adolescents, 3-13 years old (mean age 8.66). The majority (66%) of selected were girls, and they were all outpatients at the pediatric AIDS clinic of a public hospital in Rio de Janeiro. Nested-PCR was used to identify the viral types.

RESULTS

Absence of immunosuppression was observed in 66% of the children. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) was used by 72.1% of selected and moderate viral load was observed in 56% of the children/adolescents. Viral types were found in 86% of the children and the subtypes were: HSV-1 (4%), HSV-2 (2%), VZV (4%), EBV (0%), HCMV (24%), HHV6 (18%), HHV-7 (68%), HHV8 (0%).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of HAART has helped to reduce oral lesions, especially with herpes virus infections. The health professionals who work with these patients should be aware of such lesions because of their predictive value and the herpes virus can be found circulating in the oral cavity without causing lesions.

The oral health of HIV-infected Brazilian children

BACKGROUND

The number of HIV-infected people has increased almost continuously. Paediatric dentists should be concerned about the oral findings in HIV-infected children and their aetiologic factors, to promote adequate treatment.

AIM

To present the oral health aspects of Brazilian HIV-infected children and to verify the aetiological factors.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was conducted with HIV-infected children. During the medical appointments, children were submitted to visual-tactile exams of oral soft tissues and teeth. All parents answered questions in a structured interview. Data were analysed using the SPSS, release 10.0 (Chicago, IL, USA).

RESULTS

Of the 57 children examined, 39 (69.6%) presented one or more oral soft tissue manifestations. More than a half suffered from gingivitis and only 12.5% had no visible dental biofilm. A high prevalence of dental surfaces with active carious lesions was observed; mean DMFS-m and dmfs-m scores were 5.41 ± 5.61 and 16.77 ± 19.52, respectively. Caries activity and gingivitis were correlated with the presence of mature dental biofilm.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of soft tissue lesions, dental caries and gingivitis in HIV-infected children was high and correlated to lack of satisfactory oral hygiene habits, suggesting the need of therapeutic programmes that allow these children to recover their oral health.

Differential collagenolytic activity of Candida albicans isolated from oral mucosa and dentinal carious lesions of HIV-infected children

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare type I collagen degradation by Candida albicans isolated from oral mucosa (M) and cavitated active dentinal caries (CAD) of HIV-infected children.

STUDY DESIGN

To verify the proteolytic activity, the specimens were cultivated in brain-heart infusion medium and the supernatants were incubated in the presence or absence of type I collagen at 37°C for 12 hours and analyzed using 10% sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Intensity of the bands on the gels was assessed by densitometric analysis using a scanner and images analyzed with software from Kodak Digital Science EDAS 120.

RESULTS

Supernatants of all the C. albicans degraded type I collagen: that from M, on average, by 38.3% (SD 21.67) and that from CAD by 54% (SD 25.94; Wilcoxon test: P < .05). Predisposing factors had no association with the percentage of type I collagen degradation (Mann-Whitney test: P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Candida albicans from different sites of the oral cavity of HIV-infected children has proteolytic activity for type I collagen.

Oral mucosal status and salivary IgA levels of HIV-infected children

BACKGROUND

Pediatric HIV is a major world health problem, which is progressing at an alarming rate. Lesions in the mouth and in other tissues and organs (oral and systemic lesions) in pediatric HIV infection are diverse and show differences in clinical presentation and severity from that of adults. Very little data exist for oral lesions in pediatric population in India. To assess oral mucosal status of HIV-infected children and to correlate it with their salivary IgA levels.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 150 HIV-infected children aged 6-18 years. They were divided into two groups. Group 1: Children prior to anti-retroviral therapy, Group 2: Children undergoing anti-retroviral therapy (for not more than 3 years). Criteria given by Ramos-Gomez for diagnosis of oral lesions commonly associated with HIV infection in children were used to record the oral lesions. Salivary IgA levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in mean secretory IgA (SIgA) levels between the groups (P ≤ 0.05). All the children had one or more oral mucosal lesions, with angular cheilitis being the most common lesion. There was a significant inverse relation between SIgA levels and individual oral mucosal lesions (P ≤ 0.05). The number of oral lesions was inversely related to the SIgA levels.

CONCLUSION

Oral mucosal lesions were a significant feature of HIV-infected infection, particularly in children prior to the onset of anti-retroviral therapy. All children showed low SIgA levels. Early recognition and management of oral conditions are important to improve the quality of life in these children.

Urban legends series: oral manifestations of HIV infection

Human immunodeficiency virus-related oral lesions (HIV-OLs), such as oral candidiasis (OC) and oral hairy leukoplakia (OHL), have been recognized as indicators of immune suppression since the beginning of the global HIV epidemic. The diagnosis and management of HIV disease and spectrum of opportunistic infection has changed over the past 30 years as our understanding of the infection has evolved. We investigated the following controversial topics: (i) Are oral manifestations of HIV still relevant after the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)? (ii) Can we nowadays still diagnose HIV infection through oral lesions? (iii) Is the actual classification of oral manifestations of HIV adequate or does it need to be reviewed and updated? (iv) Is there any novelty in the treatment of oral manifestations of HIV infection? Results from extensive literature review suggested the following: (i) While HAART has resulted in significant reductions in HIV-OLs, many are still seen in patients with HIV infection, with OC remaining the most common lesion. While the relationship between oral warts and the immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome is less clear, the malignant potential of oral human papillomavirus infection is gaining increasing attention. (ii) Effective antiretroviral therapy has transformed HIV from a fatal illness to a chronic manageable condition and as a result expanded screening policies for HIV are being advocated both in developed and in developing countries. Affordable, reliable, and easy-to-use diagnostic techniques have been recently introduced likely restricting the importance of HIV-OLs in diagnosis. (iii) The 1993 EC-Clearinghouse classification of HIV-OLs is still globally used despite controversy on the relevance of periodontal diseases today. HIV-OL case definitions were updated in 2009 to facilitate the accuracy of HIV-OL diagnoses by non-dental healthcare workers in large-scale epidemiologic studies and clinical trials. (iv) Research over the last 6 years on novel modalities for the treatment of HIV-OLs has been reported for OC and OHL.

Oral manifestation of HIV/AIDS infections in paediatric Nigerian patients

Background:

The aims of this study were to determine the pattern and frequency of oral lesions and to compare the prevalence of HIV-related oral lesions in paediatric Nigerian patients on HAART with those not on HAART.

Materials and Methods:

All patients aged 15 years and below attending the Infectious Disease Clinic of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital with a diagnosis of HIV were consecutively examined in a cross-sectional study over a 2-year period. Information was obtained by history, physical examinations, HIV testing, and enumeration of CD+ T cells. The results are presented. A P-value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

A total of 105 children comprising 63 males and 42 female who met the inclusion criteria participated in the study, mean age in months was 53.3±42.2, with a mean of 3.4±2.2 for male and 2.8±1.8 for female respectively. Oral lesions occurred in 61.9% of the children Overall, 22 (21.0%) had at least one oral lesion, 43 (41.0%) had multiple lesion. The most common lesion was oral candidiasis (79.1%). The angular cheilitis (43.8%) variant was most frequent. The mean CD4 counts were 1138 cells/mm³, 913 cells/mm³ and 629 cells/mm³ for those without oral lesion, with single lesion and multiple oral lesions respectively. These differences were not statistically significant (ANOVA: F=0.185, df=2, 80, 82, P=0.831. Patients on HAART comprised about 61.9% and these were found to have reduced risk for development of such oral lesions as angular cheilitis (OR=0.76; 95% CI=0.56-1.02; P=0.03), pseudomembranous candidiasis (OR=0.71; 95% CI=0.54-0.94; P=0.024) and HIV-gingivitis (OR=0.59; 95% CI=0.46-0.75; P=0.001). HAART had some beneficial but insignificant effect on development of HIV-periodonttitis (OR=0.60; 95% CI=0.51-0.70; P=0.09). The chances of occurrence of other oral lesions were not significantly reduced by HAART (Kaposi sarcoma, OR=1.24; 95% CI=0.31-5.01; P=0.47, erythematous candidiasis, OR=1.13; 95% CI=0.62-2.06).

Conclusion:

HIV-related Oral lesions are frequently seen in HIV-infected Nigerian children. Paediatric patients receiving HAART had significantly lower prevalence of oral lesions, particularly oral candidiasis and HIV-gingivitis.

Human papillomavirus coinfection in the oral cavity of HIV-infected children

Aim

To identify the early presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in the oral cavity of HIV-infected children.

Methods

The study group comprised 50 HIV-infected children and 50 healthy aged paired controls. Oral mucosa samples were collected by swab, and a 450 bp HPV DNA fragment was amplified by PCR, using degenerate consensus primers directed to the L1 gene. HPV typing was performed using specifics primers for types 6/16 and 11/18.

Results

All HPV co-infected children had vertical transmission of HIV. HPV DNA was detected in 6/50 (12.0%) of HIV children and three control group individuals 3/50 (6.0%) (p>0.01). In the HIV group, one had type 11, in the control group one had co-infection of types 11/16, and the others had type 16 and 18.

Conclusions

Based upon the results, it is concluded that HPV DNA may be present in HIV disease, but no association with immunosuppression, delivery, or medical records (CD4 cell count, viral load and use of highly active antiretroviral therapy) was observed, and no differences could be observed between the groups either.