Papillon-Lefèvre syndrome: A series of three cases in the same family and a literature review

Papillon-Lefèvre syndrome (PLS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder that exhibits palmoplantar keratosis and early severe periodontitis. The oral disease affects both the primary and permanent dentitions leading to premature exfoliation of teeth. Various etiologic factors, such as genetic mutations, immunologic alterations, and bacteria have been implicated in PLS. Genetic mutations leading to the loss of function of cathepsin C (CTSC) gene, located on chromosome 11q14, is considered pivotal in this condition. The present case series describes PLS in three siblings, with consanguineously married parents, who live in a remote area of Yemen. The affected children presented with prominent palmoplantar keratosis and early periodontitis with only a few remaining teeth. The severity of skin lesions in all patients exhibited seasonal variations. Based on their clinical findings, a diagnosis of PLS was made. Dentists have a significant role in the early diagnosis and management of PLS patients. Keywords: consanguinity, palmoplantar keratosis, Papillon-Lefèvre syndrome, periodontitis, cathepsin C