Cases of HIV-associated characteristic periodontal diseases.

In the course of infection by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) typical changes of inflammatory periodontal diseases can arise. The prevalence of these illnesses may be up to 5%. The HIV-associated periodontal diseases include linear gingival erythema (LGE), necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (NUG) and necrotizing ulcerative periodontitis (NUP). The necrotizing forms appear particularly in severe or advanced immunosuppression. It can be safely assumed that the HIV infection and the resulting immunological defects are responsible for these severe forms of destruction of the periodontal tissue. Periodontal therapy consists in the removal of necrotic tissues and removal of soft and hard plaque-deposits. This is supported by a chlorhexidine digluconate mouthrinse and antibiotics. In the interest of further prophylactics a strict system of recall appointments is recommended.