Radiographic Assessment of Different Autogenous Bone Grafts in the Alveolar Cleft: A Retrospective Longitudinal Study.

Objectives: To assess feasibility and maintenance of bone after alveolar cleft reconstructions using graft from iliac crest and mandibular symphysis. Methods: 51 alveolar clefts grafted with iliac crest and 51 ones grafted with mandibular symphysis bones were selected from patients aged between 7 and 12 years. At three (T1) and 12 months (T2) after surgeries, periapical radiographs were performed to measure the height of the grafted bone based on the modified Bergland scale. Chi-square and Mann-Whitney-Wilcoxon tests compared differences between T1 and T2 according to each bone graft. Results: From the clefts grafted with mandibular symphysis bone, 47 were classified as type I (92.5%) and 04 as type II (7.84%) at T1. At T2, 36 were classified as type II (25.49%) and 02 as type III (3.92%). In the analysis of the clefts grafted with iliac crest at T1, 48 were classified as type I (94.11%) and three as type II (5.88%). At T2, 37 classifieds as type I (72.54%), 12 as type II (23.52%) and two as type III (3.92%). There was no statistically significant difference between treatments. Conclusions: It was concluded that iliac crest and mandibular symphysis are adequate areas from which bone grafts can be obtained for reconstruction of alveolar cleft.

Comparative analysis of photobiomodulation therapy and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for burning mouth: a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effect of photobiomodulation (PBM) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in the treatment of burning mouth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Randomized clinical trial of 25 patients with burning mouth treated by TENS (n=12) and PBM (n=13). The patients were treated weekly for 8 weeks. Two-factor ANOVA was used to determine whether the two interventions promoted significant differences in symptoms (measured with a visual analogue scale), unstimulated salivary flow, xerostomia, and dysgeusia between T0 (baseline), T1 (after the 4th treatment session), T2 (after the 8th treatment session), and T3 (30 days after the end of treatment). RESULTS: Intragroup comparison of VAS scores for pain showed a significant difference between T0xT1, T0xT2, and T0xT3 in the TENS group and between T0xT2 and T0xT3 in the PBM group (p˂0.001). Intergroup comparison of VAS scores for pain between T2xT3 showed a better response to PBM than to TENS (p=0.003). Patients of the TENS group showed an increase in salivary flow between T1 and T2 (p=0.052). There were no expressive variations in xerostomia or dysgeusia in the two groups analyzed. CONCLUSION: TENS and PBM were effective in reducing the symptoms of burning mouth during and after treatment. The PBM group showed a better response during follow-up. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This clinical trial was registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov (Number: NCT05816200). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: TENS was found to be a safe and effective therapy for burning mouth. Trial registration number (TRN) and date of registration: This clinical trial was registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov (Number: NCT05816200; date: May 08, 2023).

The surgical management of a patient with chronic renal failure and macrothrombocytopenia related to the MYH9 gene mutation: A case report.

MYH9 disease is a rare genetic disorder in which there is a mutation in the gene for the non-muscle myosin heavy chain IIA. It initially causes macrothrombocytopenia followed by other clinical manifestations. When the patient reaches adulthood, he can develop chronic kidney failure. Thus, the risk of suffering a hemorrhage, difficulty in repairing and, infections increases in individuals with this disease. In addition, the use of drugs in these patients should be carefully evaluated. An adult patient sought dental care with a complaint associated with a tooth with advanced dental caries. He had severe thrombocytopenia (7000 platelets/mm3 ), hearing loss, and chronic kidney failure. The diagnosis of MYH9 disease was confirmed through genotyping. After clinical examination, extraction was planned. Local and systemic procedures were used to prevent hemorrhage, especially postoperatively. Although the patient had an infection at the surgical wound site and no episode of postoperative bleeding, the repair process occurred normally. The purpose of this article is to report the surgical management of a patient with MYH9 disease.

The potential impact of vegetarian diet on the oral mucosa: A preliminary cytopathological study.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Actually, many individuals have opted for the vegetarian diet. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the vegetarian diet on the oral epithelium through cytopathology. METHODS: Oral smears of the tongue and buccal mucosa of 60 adult subjects (30 vegetarians and 30 controls) were collected. Smears were analyzed morphologically and for three morphometric variables: nucleus area (NA), cytoplasm area (CA) and nucleus/cytoplasm ratio. RESULTS: Vegetarians were classified as ovolactovegetarian (53.3%), vegans (30%) and strict vegetarians (16.7%). The NA and CA of the epithelial cells of vegetarian individuals were smaller when compared to controls both in the region of the buccal mucosa and tongue. However, there was no statistically significant difference according to the Student's t-test. For the NA/CA ratio, cells in the oral mucosa region were larger for vegetarians compared to controls. For the tongue, both groups had the same value and the Mann-Whitney U test confirmed that there is no difference between the groups for this cytomorphometric variable. RESULTS: Vegan individuals had a smaller (but not larger) area of CA when compared to controls for the tongue (vegan = 2604.2 ± 179.2 versus control = 3256.7 ± 463.8 p = 0.013). Most smears showed normal epithelial cells and some individuals had changes of an inflammatory nature, mainly in the tongue. CONCLUSION: Despite the small sample size, the results of this study raise the hypothesis that the vegetarian diet (especially the vegan diet) can compromise the thickness of the oral epithelium of the tongue.

Biological response to lyophilized demineralized dentin matrix implanted in the subcutaneous tissues of rats.

AIM: Lyophilized demineralized dentin matrix (LDDM) consists of a type 1 collagen complex matrix containing growth factors and no mineral crystals. Although the efficacy of LDDM for bone grafting is well known, there is limited evidence on the biological response to human lyophilized DDM. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the biological response of subcutaneous tissues in rats to powdered LDDM, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), and Biodentine implanted using polyethylene tubes. METHODS: Forty Wistar rats were divided into four groups (n = 10 each) depending on the experimental time intervals and were placed in polyethylene tubes containing LDDM, MTA, biodentine, and one empty control. After 3, 7, 15, and 30 observation days, the animals were sacrificed and quantitative and qualitative analysis of the subcutaneous tissue samples was carried out. The intensity of the inflammatory response was scored from 0 (no response) to 3 (severe response), and the data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and Bonferroni tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: All groups exhibited moderate inflammation after 3 and 7 days of observation, with presence of inflammatory infiltrate predominantly consisting of macrophages and angioblastic proliferation being observed. After 15 observation days, the control group exhibited mild inflammation and a predominance of fibroblasts, and this differed significantly from the remaining cement groups that exhibited moderate inflammation. After 30 days of observation, all groups exhibited a mild inflammatory response, predominance of fibroblasts, and a greater amount of collagen fibers. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that LDDM exhibited an acceptable biological response similar to MTA and Biodentine in the subcutaneous tissues of rats.

Conformational and constitutional analysis of dental caries following radiotherapy for head and neck cancer.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the morphology and chemical composition of dental caries related to ionizing radiation (DCIR), an aggressive and progressive disease that affects dental hard tissues. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight human teeth with DCIR were paired with sixteen control teeth (8 teeth with conventional caries and 8 without caries) and included in this study. An analysis of the morphology of the lesions was performed using the following techniques: periapical radiography, cone beam computed tomography, computed microtomography, and scanning electron microscopy. The chemical composition was assessed using X-ray dispersive spectroscopy. RESULTS: There was more demineralization in DCIR lesions when compared to conventional dental caries, even though there was no cavitation in the cervical region of the teeth. The superficial roughness and topography of DCIR lesions were similar to those of healthy teeth. On the other hand, lesions of conventional dental caries showed greater surface and topographic irregularity when compared to DCIR and healthy teeth (p = 0.001). Calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) levels were lower in DCIR lesions when compared to controls. However, higher levels of carbon (C) have been observed in DCIR lesions. There was a greater loss of the mineral matrix in DCIR followed by conventional caries. The reduction in the mineral matrix (Ca and P) was compatible with the imaging patterns observed in teeth with DCIR and conventional caries. CONCLUSION: Despite their rapid evolution, DCIR presents an irregular, apparently intact surface with significant changes in the amount of Ca, P, and C.

Oral health, organic and inorganic saliva composition of men with Schizophrenia: Case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Schizophrenia (SCZ) presents complex challenges related to diagnosis and clinical monitoring. The study of conditions associated with SCZ can be facilitated by using potential markers and patterns that provide information to support the diagnosis and oral health. METHODS: The salivary composition of patients diagnosed with SCZ (n = 50) was evaluated and compared to the control (n = 50). Saliva samples from male patients were collected and clinical parameters were evaluated. The concentration of total proteins and amylase were determined and salivary macro- and microelements were quantified by ICP OES and ICP-MS. Exploratory data analysis based on artificial intelligence tools was used in the investigation. RESULTS: There was a significant increase in the salivary concentrations of Al, Fe, Li, Mg, Na, and V, higher prevalence of caries (p < 0.001), periodontal disease (p < 0.001), and reduced salivary flow rate (p = 0.019) in SCZ patients. Also, samples were grouped into six clusters. As, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Mo, Ni, Se, and Sr were correlated with each other, while Fe, K, Li, Ti, and V showed the highest concentrations in the samples distributed in the clusters with the highest association between SZC patients and controls. CONCLUSIONS: The results obtained indicate changes in salivary flow, organic composition, and levels of macro- and microelements in SCZ patients. Salivary concentrations of Fe, Mg, and Na may be related to oral conditions, higher prevalence of caries, and periodontal disease. The exploratory analysis showed different patterns in the salivary composition of SCZ patients impacted by associations between oral health conditions and the use of medications. Future studies are encouraged to confirm the results investigated in this study.

Relationship between taste perception and use of upper complete dentures.

AIMS: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the taste perception in patients with upper complete dentures. METHODS AND RESULTS: One hundred seventy male and female patients (45-83 years old) upper denture wearers were evaluated for their gustatory function by the paper strips technique in relation to the four basic tastes. The taste test was performed with and without the presence of the denture on the palate. Through Shapiro-Wilk and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, the results were analyzed by their normal distribution. The t-test for paired samples was used to evaluate if there was a statistical difference on the taste perception and itself revealed that there is a significant difference (p < 0.01) when the taste perception was analyzed for the absence and presence of the prosthesis (alone and compared) (p < 0.01). The results revealed that patients with dentures had great difficulty to recognize the bitter taste, followed by the salty, sweet, and sour. CONCLUSION: The presence of the denture was able to modify the perception of taste when compared to its absence, especially for the bitter taste.

Oral Reactive Lesions Associated to Incomplete Removal of Natal Teeth: Case Report.

Natal teeth are infrequent at birth. Dental extraction is the most recommended treatment to avoid complications. Reactive soft tissue lesions associated to natal tooth or its incomplete removal are rare. A five-month-old female presented natal teeth #71 and #81 which were removed the day after the birth. The baby evolved with two nodules in the region of #71 and #81, pedunculated, 10 and 9 mm, respectively, covered by a pink mucosa, firm in consistency. Periapical radiography showed two radiopaque areas, suggestive of root fragments. After 30 days the nodule located in the region of #81 became purple in color and ulcerated. Both lesions were removed with high intensity diode laser. Histopathological analysis was compatible with inflammatory fibrous hyperplasia (#71) and pyogenic granuloma (#81). Early diagnosis of oral lesions in newborns by means of histopathological examination and a minimum invasive treatment, such as laser surgery, should be of primary concern.

Salivary flow, amylase, and total protein in hospitalized patients with HIV infection / AIDS complications.

BACKGROUND: Saliva is a complex secretion produced daily by the salivary glands. Saliva consists mainly of water, enzymes, ions and amino acids and performs several important functions in oral health. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the flow rate and concentrations of amylase and total proteins in the saliva of hospitalized patients due to AIDS complications. METHODS: Ninety-three men and women (20-64 years of age) were divided into two groups (46 HIV-infected patients and 47 controls) and had salivary flow rate and levels of amylase enzyme and total proteins evaluated. RESULT: The mean salivary flow rate was lower in individuals with HIV when compared to controls (P < 0.05). No significant difference between amylase enzyme levels and total proteins were observed in the saliva of patients with HIV infection when compared to controls. CONCLUSION: Individuals with HIV / AIDS infection (in hospital treatment) suffer no interference in levels of amylase and total salivary proteins, but they have significantly reduced salivary flow.

The characteristics of palate and upper dental arch can be an anatomical marker for men with schizophrenia? Case-control study: Palate can be a marker for schizophrenia?

AIMS: The aim of this study was to compare individuals with and without schizophrenia through the characteristics of the palate, such as width, length, depth, palate shape, and upper dental arch shape. METHODS AND RESULTS: The sample was divided into one case group (n = 45) and two control groups (n = 90; 45 individuals each group). Groups were paired by variables: sex, age, and malocclusion type. All analyses were performed on upper dental arch plaster models. All individuals were male and the mean age was 28.56 (SD: 7.82) years. The frequency of the malocclusion type observed was 54.1% (Class I), 22.2% (Class II), and 23.7% (Class III). Statistically significant difference was observed between the case and control groups for the variables palate shape (P = .004) and upper dental arch shape (P = .003). The case group had a higher frequency of the deep or grooved palate shape (57.8%) and parabolic dental arch shape (48.9%). There was no statistically significant difference for the palate width, length, and depth (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: There was an evidence that the deep or grooved palate shape and parabolic dental arch shape are morphological characteristics of the palate in men with schizophrenia.

Radiographic analysis of dental maturation in children with amelogenesis imperfecta: A case-control study.

AIMS: To assess dental maturation in children with amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) and compare their estimated dental age with the age of non-AI children. METHODS AND RESULTS: Panoramic radiographs of children with (n = 27) and without (n = 54) AI were retrospectively collected in the ratio of 1:2. The former consisted of case group, while the latter figured as control group. Both groups were paired by sex and age (P > .05). Dental maturation was assessed in each radiograph using Demirjian's staging technique and Willems' method. Intra- and interexaminer reproducibility reached >0.8. The mean estimated dental age in subjects with AI was 12.5 ± 2.69 years, while in subjects without AI it was 11.73 ± 2.48 years (P = .21). The comparison of mean chronological (12.26 ± 2.6 years) and estimated dental age (12.5 ± 2.69 years) in subjects with AI did not reveal statistically significant differences (P = .38). CONCLUSION: This study highlights the similarity of dental maturation between subjects with and without AI from the radiographic perspective of crown-root formation.

Morphologic, Structural, and Chemical Properties of Pulp Stones in Extracted Human Teeth.

INTRODUCTION: Pulp stones are mineral structures that develop in the pulp tissue triggered by several clinical conditions. The exact biochemical process behind the occurrence of pulp stones is uncertain. This study aimed to perform a structural and crystallographic characterization of pulp stones and dentin from extracted human teeth. METHODS: The sample consisted of 13 erupted and unerupted permanent human teeth diagnosed with pulp stones. The teeth were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy with secondary and backscattered electrons, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, micro-Raman spectroscopy, micro-X-ray diffraction, and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy. RESULTS: The pulp stones revealed a heterogeneous morphology and structure compared with each other. Compared with the adjacent dentin, the pulp stones had a similar structure. From a chemical point of view, oxygen, calcium, carbon, and phosphorus were the most prevalent chemical elements in the inner part of the stones, whereas on the surface carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, chlorine, aluminum, potassium, zinc, copper, and lead were the most prevalent. Copper, iron, and zinc were higher in the stones than the dentin (P < .05). Statistically significant differences between the chemical structure of stones from erupted and unerupted teeth were not detected (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Pulp stones have structural and chemical properties that are similar to dentin. Variations in morphology are common.

Morphology of the palate, palatal rugae pattern, and dental arch form in patients with schizophrenia.

AIMS: This study aimed to investigate the morphology of the palate, palatal rugae pattern, and dental arch form in patients with schizophrenia. METHODS AND RESULTS: An observational case-control study was designed following the STROBE statement and checklist. The sample consisted of 132 patients (39 diagnosed with schizophrenia and 93 controls). Dental casts of the patients were classified based on the pattern of their palatal rugae, their dental arch form, and the area of their palate. The palatal rugae in patients with schizophrenia had a more random distribution and shape compared to the control group (P = .027). Oval dental arches were the most prevalent in both groups (P = .473). The palate area was slightly larger in the control group (3.2318 ± 0.549 mm2 ) compared with the group of patients with schizophrenia (3.060 ± 0.470 mm2 ) (P = .090). CONCLUSION: Palatal rugae pattern may feature as a potential minor physical anomaly for schizophrenia. Additional studies with alternative sampling and classification systems are necessary to understand this finding and its applications in practice.

Oral Health Impact Profile and Associated Variables in Southern Brazilian Drug Users.

BACKGROUND: This study investigated the association between sociodemographic, behavioral, oral health, variables of drug consumption, and the short version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14), in Southern Brazilian drug users. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 202 drug users aged 18 or over admitted for treatment at the Institute for Research and Treatment of Alcoholism (Instituto de Pesquisa e Tratamento do Alcoolismo -IPTA) from the municipality of Campo Largo, PR, Brazil, from 2012 to 2014, were involved. They answered a questionnaire and were examined by a calibrated researcher. Data were collected and bivariate (Chi-square test) and multivariate (logistic regression and Wald's test) analyses were performed. RESULTS: There was statistical difference (P<0.05) in bivariate analysis and the worst impacts were reported by non-whites, those who reported feeling metallic taste in mouth and tooth mobility, which use cigarettes for over 15 yr and consume more than 3 g of crack/day, with DMFT >10, and number of teeth in mouth ≤27. In the multivariate analysis, statistical difference remained, except for ethnicity (P=0.207). CONCLUSION: Self-perception of oral health was associated with the variables explored, which suggests the need for strategies focused on this population.

GENOTOXICITY AND CYTOTOXICITY OF X-RAYS IN CHILDREN EXPOSED TO PANORAMIC RADIOGRAPHY. / GENOTOXICIDADE E CITOTOXICIDADE DOS RAIOS X EM CRIANÇAS SUBMETIDAS À RADIOGRAFIA PANORÂMICA.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the genotoxicity and cytotoxicity produced by X-rays in the epithelium of the oral mucosa of infants exposed to panoramic radiography. METHODS: The sample consisted of 30 healthy children, 19 females and 11 males, ranging in age from 4 to 10 years (average of 7 years of age). Oral mucosa cells were collected by liquid-based cytology immediately before and after seven days following the exposure to panoramic radiography. Smears were processed and stained using the modified Feulgen Rossenbeck technique. Bud and broken egg nuclear projections, changes in the form of micronuclei, and genotoxic and cytotoxic changes of pyknosis, karyorrhexis and karyolysis were analyzed and quantified. RESULTS: The frequency of pyknosis, buds and broken eggs was significantly higher after exposure to X-rays (p<0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference regarding gender, as well as in the other changes studied. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to X-rays emitted during submission to panoramic radiography may induce cell death in the epithelium of children's oral mucosa. No evidence was found for a significant genotoxic effect.

OBJETIVO: Analisar a genotoxicidade e a citotoxicidade produzidas por raios X no epitélio da mucosa oral de crianças durante a obtenção da radiografia panorâmica. MÉTODOS: A amostra foi constituída por 30 crianças saudáveis, sendo 19 do sexo feminino e 11 do masculino, com faixa etária de 4 a 10 anos (média de 7 anos de idade). As células epiteliais da mucosa oral foram coletadas por meio de citologia esfoliativa em base líquida imediatamente antes e após sete dias da obtenção da radiografia panorâmica. Os esfregaços foram processados e corados utilizando a técnica de Feulgen Rossenbeck modificada. Foram analisadas e quantificadas projeções nucleares dos tipos bud e broken egg, alterações genotóxicas na forma de micronúcleo e alterações citotóxicas dos tipos picnose, cariólise e cariorrexe. RESULTADOS: A frequência de picnose, bud e broken egg foi significativamente maior após a exposição aos raios X (p<0,05), porém não houve diferença estatisticamente significante em relação ao sexo, bem como nas demais alterações estudadas. CONCLUSÕES: A exposição aos raios X emitidos durante a obtenção da radiografia panorâmica pode induzir à morte celular no epitélio da mucosa oral de crianças. Não foi encontrado indício significativo de efeito genotóxico.

Genotoxicidade e citotoxicidade dos raios x em crianças submetidas à radiografia panorâmica / Genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of x-rays in children exposed to panoramic radiography

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a genotoxicidade e a citotoxicidade produzidas por raios X no epitélio da mucosa oral de crianças durante a obtenção da radiografia panorâmica. Métodos: A amostra foi constituída por 30 crianças saudáveis, sendo 19 do sexo feminino e 11 do masculino, com faixa etária de 4 a 10 anos (média de 7 anos de idade). As células epiteliais da mucosa oral foram coletadas por meio de citologia esfoliativa em base líquida imediatamente antes e após sete dias da obtenção da radiografia panorâmica. Os esfregaços foram processados e corados utilizando a técnica de Feulgen Rossenbeck modificada. Foram analisadas e quantificadas projeções nucleares dos tipos bud e broken egg, alterações genotóxicas na forma de micronúcleo e alterações citotóxicas dos tipos picnose, cariólise e cariorrexe. Resultados: A frequência de picnose, bud e broken egg foi significativamente maior após a exposição aos raios X (p<0,05), porém não houve diferença estatisticamente significante em relação ao sexo, bem como nas demais alterações estudadas. Conclusões: A exposição aos raios X emitidos durante a obtenção da radiografia panorâmica pode induzir à morte celular no epitélio da mucosa oral de crianças. Não foi encontrado indício significativo de efeito genotóxico.

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the genotoxicity and cytotoxicity produced by X-rays in the epithelium of the oral mucosa of infants exposed to panoramic radiography. Methods: The sample consisted of 30 healthy children, 19 females and 11 males, ranging in age from 4 to 10 years (average of 7 years of age). Oral mucosa cells were collected by liquid-based cytology immediately before and after seven days following the exposure to panoramic radiography. Smears were processed and stained using the modified Feulgen Rossenbeck technique. Bud and broken egg nuclear projections, changes in the form of micronuclei, and genotoxic and cytotoxic changes of pyknosis, karyorrhexis and karyolysis were analyzed and quantified. Results: The frequency of pyknosis, buds and broken eggs was significantly higher after exposure to X-rays (p<0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference regarding gender, as well as in the other changes studied. Conclusions: Exposure to X-rays emitted during submission to panoramic radiography may induce cell death in the epithelium of children's oral mucosa. No evidence was found for a significant genotoxic effect.

Cytopathological Changes Induced by the Crack Use in Oral Mucosa.

AIMS: To evaluate cytological alterations, inflammation, and microbial charge of the oral mucosa epithelium in crack users in in terms of the amount and duration of use. METHODS: Two hundred thirty four crack users (case group) and 120 non-users (control group) participated in this study. Clinically healthy epithelial cells were collected from the posterior mouth floor, using the conventional exfoliative cytology. Some of the aspects evaluated were as follows: Papanicolaou classification, nuclear area (NA), cytoplasmic area (CA), nuclear/cytoplasmic area ratio (NA/CA), inflammation, microbial charge, keratinization, enucleated superficial cells, and binucleation. RESULTS: The average time of crack consumption was 9.8 years (±7.1) and the average quantity of use was 13.97 g/week (±18.5). The average NA values and NA/CA ratio were increased and CA values were decreased in the case group compared to those in the controls (p < 0.05). Papanicolaou class II, intense inflammation, and intense microbial charge were more prevalent in the case group than in the controls (p < 0.05). There was a significant association between high quantity of smoked crack rocks per week and increased CA values, absence of keratinization, and presence of enucleated superficial cells (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Crack use seemed to induce inflammatory alterations and early indicators of malignant transformation on the oral mucosa epithelium.

Identification of AgNORs and cytopathological changes in oral lichen planus lesions.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate cytopathological changes in epithelial cells of the oral mucosa of patients with oral lichen planus (OLP) compared with patients without OLP. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Swabs were collected from the oral mucosa of 20 patients with OLP (case group) and 20 patients without OLP (control group) using liquid-based cytology. After Papanicolaou staining, the smears were characterized based on Papanicolaou classification and degree of maturation. Nuclear area (NA) measurements, cytoplasmic area (CA) measurements, and the NA/CA ratio were determined from 50 epithelial cells per slide. For quantification of argyrophilic nucleolar organizer regions (AgNORs), the smears were stained with silver nitrate, and the number of AgNORs was counted in 100 cells. RESULTS: In both groups, there was a predominance of Papanicolaou Class I nucleated cells in the superficial layer. The average values of NA (p>0.05) and CA (p=0.000) were greater in the case group (NA=521.6, CA=22,750.3) compared with the control group (NA=518.9, CA=18,348.0). The NA/CA ratio was 0.025 for the case group and 0.031 for the control group (p=0.004). There was no significant difference between the mean AgNORs values of both groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: The oral mucosa of patients with OLP exhibited significant cytomorphometric changes. However, there was no evidence of malignancy.