The prevalence of oral manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus.

Previous investigators have described oral manifestations of degenerative connective tissue diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, but little data exists on the profile and prevalence of these signs and symptoms in a given patient population. The purpose of this study was to describe the prevailing oral symptoms and signs of a population of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Sixteen women with diagnosed systemic lupus erythematosus were thoroughly examined and completed a questionnaire regarding specific oral symptoms. The results indicated certain prevalent objective manifestations: xerostomia; angular cheilitis; chapped lips; mucositis; glossitis; caries; and periodontal disease. Analysis of the questionnaires revealed the following subjective complaints: xerostomia, problems with caries; periodontal disease; difficulties in chewing, swallowing, and eating; dysguesia; and glossodynia. The high prevalence of oral problems indicates the necessity for thorough oral examinations as well as recognition and preventive management of these prevalent oral manifestations in dental patients with systemic lupus ervthematosus.