Oral manifestations in pediatric patients diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia receiving chemotherapy at Queen Rania Al Abdullah Hospital for children in Jordan

Abstract EN

Objective : To assess the prevalence of oral manifestations in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia receiving chemotherapy and to investigate the significance of independent risk factors such as age, gender, oral hygiene status on the development of oral complications in these patients.

Methods : This descriptive study was conducted by recruiting a total of 58 patients diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia aged 5-12 years.

Patients were examined in the dental clinic during the period between February 2013 - May 2013.

A clinical examination was conducted using plain mirror under artificial light, Löe and Silness gingival index was used to describe the gingival condition, while oral hygiene was evaluated according to OHI-S index.

Information regarding oral hygiene habits was collected and mucositis and infection were recorded if present.

Results : A total of 58 subjects 22 females and 36 males were included in this study.

Prevalence of oral manifestations was (84.5 %) for gingivitis; (37.9 %) for mucositis; (27.6 %) for candidiasis; (77.6 %) for dry lips and (3.3 %) for coated tongue.

A strong correlation was found between poor oral hygiene and the development of gingivitis, mucositis and candidiasis.

Conclusion : Poor oral hygiene was important risk factor for the development of gingivitis, mucositis and candidiasis, therefore professional oral care is strongly recommended before, during and after chemotherapy and follow up to prevent and control oral manifestations.