Leukemia/lymphoma oral infiltration and its impact on disease outcomes: A Brazilian study.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Oral malignant infiltrations (OMI) are relevant for the diagnosis and prognosis of leukemia/lymphoma. This study analysed the oral health status and OMI of individuals with leukemia/lymphoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis (2010-2021) of data from individuals seen at a specialized hospital-based dental service in Brazil. RESULTS: A total of 781 cases of leukemia/lymphoma were surveyed. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (30.1%), acute myeloid leukemia (AML; 26.0%), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (22.2%) were the most common diagnoses. The first (21.3%) and second (19.3%) decades of life were the most affected. Overall, dental caries (36.7%) and periodontal changes (34.6%) were the most frequent oral conditions. OMI occurred in 25 (3.2%) individuals. Lesions mainly involved the gingiva (80%) and patients diagnosed with AML (64%). Death (p < 0.001) and worse periodontal condition (p = 0.036) were more frequent among adults with OMI than among those without OMI. Death (p = 0.002) was more frequent among paediatric individuals with OMI than among those without OMI. When controlling for underlying disease, no association was observed between OMI and these outcomes. CONCLUSION: Oral status of individuals with leukemia, particularly those with acute leukemia or lymphoma, should be closely monitored since one or multiple conditions may occur, including OMI, which may influence disease outcomes.