The influence of pemphigus vulgaris on oral health

SUMMARY Introduction. Pemphigus is an heterogeneous group of skin and mucosal membranes disease. It is caused by autoantibodies against cell adhesion molecules of keratinocytes. Pemphigus is classified into five major categories: Pemphigus foliaceus and IgA pemphigus, pemphigus vulgaris, drug-induced pemphigus, paraneoplastic pemphigus. The aim of this systematic review is analyse the prevalence of periodontal disease in PV patients respect to general population. Furthermore the study evaluates if PV is a risk factor of periodontal disease. Methods. Two independent reviewers analysed and read 14 articles. After the initial checks the reviewers excluded 12 articles because did not respect the inclusion criteria. The articles are summarized and all data extracted. Results. The first study of Akman showed a higher CPITN in the study group with a statistical relevance (p value<0.001). The study of Thorat shows a higher PD and CAL in the study group with a statistically significant P value (P value<0.05) Only CAL in the upper arch was higher in the study group with statistical significance (p value 0.0394). The plaque index is higher in the study group with a statistical significance (P value<0.001). Discussion. Patients with PV can use immunosuppressive drugs and systemic steroids thereby this suppress the immune response. Periodontitis is a disease that affects the tooth supporting structures. It cause the destruction of the alveolar bone and the loss of the teeth. This data shows that PV patients has a high risk to develop periodontitis respect to population. These patients must have a higher frequency of visit by dentist to prevent periodontitis.