Sherson W, Taylor B; Australasian Society for HIV Medicine. Conference.

Annu Conf Australas Soc HIV Med. 1997 Nov 13-16; 9: 132 (poster no. P33).

Department of Periodontics, United Dental Hospital, Surry Hills, NSW.

The incidence of xerostomia, abnormal dryness of the mouth, has been reported to be in the range of 2-10% which, although relatively low, causes significant morbidity as it is implicated in rapid and widespread dental decay, together with ulceration and infection of oral mucosa. Additionally, it causes difficulties in speech, mastication and swallowing. Xerostomia may be a direct result of HIV infection of salivary gland tissue or it may be indirect, as a side effect of many medications used in HIV management. AIM: To determine the incidence, and variables related to, xerostomia in a cohort of HIV positive people undergoing periodontal treatment and maintenance. METHOD: A thorough history was taken from 130 patients detailing general health, HIV markers, medications, smoking and experience of dry mouth. A clinical examination was also carried out. RESULTS: The incidence of xerostomia was 10.8%. When compared with non-xerostomic patients, patients with xerostomia had a slightly lower CD4 (mean 350), lower viral load (mean 20,900), and were taking more antiretrovirals (mean 2.6) and a higher number of additional medications (mean 2.0). The respective means for the non-xerostomic group were: 400, 47,600, 1.9, 1.3. There was little difference in the incidence of smoking. CONCLUSION: The incidence of xerostomia in this cohort is higher than previously reported. Drug therapy appears to be significant in the development of xerostomia. Early detection and management of xerostomia involving dental, medical and dietary management is essential to prevent development of debilitating complications associated with dry mouth in this group.

Publication Types:

• Meeting Abstracts

Keywords:

• Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
• Deglutition
• Dental Caries
• HIV Infections
• HIV Seropositivity
• Humans
• Incidence
• Mouth Mucosa
• Xerostomia
• epidemiology

Other ID:

• 98095215

UI: 102226364

From Meeting Abstracts