Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in the United States in 1986: etiology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and dental implications.

The acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) results from a lymphotropic retrovirus (HTLV-III) infection and is characterized by specific opportunistic infections and malignancies. The virus is transmitted primarily by semen and blood. Infection is limited principally to defined risk groups, i.e., homosexual men and intravenous drug users. Head and neck manifestations include cervical lymphadenopathy and Kaposi's sarcoma. Oral manifestations include Kaposi's sarcoma, candidiasis, hairy leukoplakia, precocious periodontal disease, xerostomia, herpes simplex, recurrent aphthae, erythema multiforme, and venereal warts. Although HTLV-III is present in saliva, there are no reported cases of transmission secondary to dental procedures. Appropriate precautions and techniques are recommended in treating patients at risk for AIDS.