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Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

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01-09-2018 | Case Report

Oral hairy leukoplakia in healthy immunocompetent patients: a small case series

Authors: Daire Shanahan, Rachel Cowie, Helen Rogers, Konrad Staines

Published in: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery | Issue 3/2018

Abstract

Background

Oral hairy leukoplakia (OHL) is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and usually presents in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and systemic immunosuppression. It is rarely seen in patients who are immunocompetent. It is clinically characterised as an asymptomatic, soft, white and corrugated lesion that cannot be scraped from the surface it adheres to.

Methods

Immunocompetent patients with OHL attending Bristol Dental Hospital within the last 6 months were identified. EBV infection was demonstrated using EBV in situ hybridization. Clinical features and medical history were determined by reviewing medical records.

Case report

Four cases of OHL in immunocompetent individuals were identified. All lesions were located on the lateral borders of the tongue.

Discussion

OHL should be considered as a differential diagnosis for white patches on the lateral borders of the tongue in apparently healthy immunocompetent patients, even when they do not have a typical corrugated appearance. OHL should no longer be regarded as pathognomonic for HIV infection or systemic immunosuppression.

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Title: Oral hairy leukoplakia in healthy immunocompetent patients: a small case series
Authors: Daire Shanahan
Rachel Cowie
Helen Rogers
Konrad Staines
Publication date: 01-09-2018
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery / Issue 3/2018
Print ISSN: 1865-1550
Electronic ISSN: 1865-1569
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10006-018-0709-7

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Oral hairy leukoplakia in healthy immunocompetent patients: a small case series

Abstract

Background

Methods

Case report

Discussion

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Case report

Discussion

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