Human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, is a virus that attacks the immune system cells that normally protect individuals from disease. Over time, HIV destroys the immune system, and the body is no longer able to fight off common infections. Symptoms of HIV infection are often caused by opportunistic infections that the body cannot fight, according to AIDS.gov. Many of these symptoms manifest themselves in the oral cavity.
Candidiasis
In HIV-positive patients, candidiasis occurs as a result of opportunistic infection with the candida albicans fungus. Candidiasis can be erythematous, which manifests as red patches on the tongue and palate, according to the book, "Medically Complex Dental Patients." Candidiasis can also present in a pseudomembranous form, in which there are white lesions all over the mouth.
Kaposi Sarcoma
Kaposi sarcoma is a lesion that very rarely occurs in those unaffected by HIV. Lesions of Kaposi sarcoma are flat, blue or purple lesions. They can occur anywhere in the mouth, but they are most commonly found on the hard palate. The American Cancer Society refers to Kaposi sarcoma as an AIDS-defining illness, meaning that a Kaposi sarcoma diagnosis indicates that HIV has progressed to AIDS. Antiretroviral therapy has decreased the incidence of Kaposi sarcoma, but it often leads to death quickly in those not receiving treatment.
Hairy Leukoplakia
Hairy leukoplakia in HIV patients results from opportunistic infection with the Epstein-Barr virus, according to MayoClinic.com. Hairy leukoplakia usually appears on the lateral sides of the tongue. These striated lesions are asymptomatic, but they have an appearance resembling hair. Diagnosis is made through biopsy and histological examination. MayoClinic.com indicates that one quarter of HIV-positive individuals have hairy leukoplakia. Its appearance in those undergoing antiretroviral therapy is sometimes a sign that treatment is no longer effective.
References
- "Medically Complex Dental Patients, 3rd Edition"; Rhodus Miller; 2008
- "Dental Secrets, 3rd Edition"; Stephen T. Sonis, DMD; 2003
- American Cancer Society: Kaposi Sarcoma
- MayoClinic.com: Leukoplakia
- AIDS.gov: Signs and Symptoms
