Munchausen syndrome by proxy: A narrative review and update for the dentist and other healthcare professionals.

Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSbP) is a form of abuse in which a caregiver with Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another (FDIA) fabricates or induces signs or symptoms in a person under their care to satisfy a self-serving psychological need. Unnecessary clinical evaluations, procedures, and treatments that are initiated based on falsification by the abuser inadvertently add to the trauma experienced by the victim. It is a form of abuse and the impact on victims can be severe, sometimes fatal, and far-reaching such as prolonged neglect and extension to affected siblings. The long-term exposure to MSbP may predispose the victim to eventually developing factitious disorder imposed on self (FDIS). While MSbP often involves child victims, elderly, adults, and pets have also been reported as victims. MSbP can be a diagnostic challenge, and the important keys to timely identification of MSbP include the ability to detect deception by caregivers through awareness, clinical suspicion, and careful review of available health records; it also involves collecting collaborative information from other relevant healthcare providers including dentists, schoolteachers, and social workers. To date, there are limited published cases of MSbP with oral findings. This paper provides a narrative review of the current understanding of MSbP with a section on cases with oral findings. This paper aims to increase awareness about the clinical presentations and management considerations for MSbP among dentists and other healthcare professionals.

Automatic Feature Segmentation in Dental Periapical Radiographs.

While a large number of archived digital images make it easy for radiology to provide data for Artificial Intelligence (AI) evaluation; AI algorithms are more and more applied in detecting diseases. The aim of the study is to perform a diagnostic evaluation on periapical radiographs with an AI model based on Convoluted Neural Networks (CNNs). The dataset includes 1169 adult periapical radiographs, which were labelled in CranioCatch annotation software. Deep learning was performed using the U-Net model implemented with the PyTorch library. The AI models based on deep learning models improved the success rate of carious lesion, crown, dental pulp, dental filling, periapical lesion, and root canal filling segmentation in periapical images. Sensitivity, precision and F1 scores for carious lesion were 0.82, 0.82, and 0.82, respectively; sensitivity, precision and F1 score for crown were 1, 1, and 1, respectively; sensitivity, precision and F1 score for dental pulp, were 0.97, 0.87 and 0.92, respectively; sensitivity, precision and F1 score for filling were 0.95, 0.95, and 0.95, respectively; sensitivity, precision and F1 score for the periapical lesion were 0.92, 0.85, and 0.88, respectively; sensitivity, precision and F1 score for root canal filling, were found to be 1, 0.96, and 0.98, respectively. The success of AI algorithms in evaluating periapical radiographs is encouraging and promising for their use in routine clinical processes as a clinical decision support system.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Role of dentist in early diagnosis.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a genetic disorder characterized by an impairment of steroid synthesis due to an altered production of 21-hydroxylase enzyme. Corticoid hormones are involved in the development and functioning of many organs. The aim of the present study was to review the international literature to collect data regarding oral manifestations of CAH. A review of the literature describing oral features of patients affected by CAH was performed using electronic databases (PubMed and Scopus). The data about number of patients, form of CAH, and oral findings were extracted and analyzed. Seven studies were included in the final analysis. The principal findings reported regarded an advanced dental development observed in patients with CAH. One paper reported amelogenesis imperfecta and periodontal issues. The dentist could be the first specialist involved in the CAH syndrome diagnosis, identifying the characteristic features described above, especially for the classical simple virilizing and non-classical form.

Oro-dental features in Egyptian patients with familial mediterranean fever.

INTRODUCTION: Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an episodic inflammatory disease that is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. It is primarily featured by fever, pain in joints, chest, and abdomen due to Serositis. AIM: This study delineated the oro-facial structures presented associated with FMF, as well as, the determination of the potential influences of the long-term inflammatory process of FMF on several oral structures. METHODS: Fifty eight Egyptian FMF patients were examined to define different oro-facial structures. Serum amyloid A (SAA) was requested for the selected patients, MEFV gene mutation was also investigated. RESULTS: The clinical examination revealed peritonitis in 79%, fever in 63.7%, and arthritis in 55% of FMF patients examined, while, oral features as high arched palate, enamel defect, dental malocclusion, and macroglossia in 32%, 27.5%. 26%, and 13.5%, respectively. The previous symptoms might be attributed to the pathology of the disease. Macroglossia when tested versus SAA levels, a highly significant difference was detected. The ROC curve when examining the SAA value to assess macroglossia, displayed reasonable sensitivity and specificity values of, 87.5% and 77.8%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The noticed oro-dental in FMF patients might be influenced by the chronic inflammatory process.

Oral health status among transgender young adults: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) people are a marginalized set of the population that continues to experience health care inequalities. This study aimed to assess oral health parameters including Candida growth and intensity among TGNC adults. METHODS: This cross-sectional study recruited two subgroups: 40 transgender and 40 control adults. Consented participants were interviewed and clinically examined. Data using the WHO oral health assessment forms were obtained. Samples for Candida growth and intensity analysis were collected from the dorsum surface of the tongue. RESULTS: 27.5% of the transgender group was HIV seropositive. Oral nicotine stomatitis and leukoplakia are reported to be the most prevalent intra-oral lesions showing a prevalence of 27.5% and 20%, respectively. The dental and periodontal health parameters of the transgender group were worse than those of the control group. The intensity of Candida colonies was significantly higher in the test group (p = 0.014). CONCLUSION: Poor oral health and significant oral mucosal disorders were reported in transgender adults that have shown a higher rate of behavioral risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol consumption. Further longitudinal studies in different world regions are warranted to understand the barriers to good oral health in transgender adults and how to implement effective prevention and management strategies.

The temporomandibular joints disorders in patients with osteoporosis.

BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis is a skeletal and progressive behavioral disease with physically and psychologically significant consequences. AIMS OF THE STUDY: Evaluate the presence and effects of Temporomandibular Joints Disorders in osteoporotic patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-eight (58) patients with osteoporosis participated in this study as they were already diagnosed by Rheumatologists, physical and sport Rehabilitation physicians in Merjan Medical city/Babylon - Iraq between period February and August 2019. RESULTS: Twenty-seven (27) patients with T. M. J clicking as anterior disk displacements, Seventeen (17) patients with spasm in muscles of mastication, and then finally Fourteen (14) out of 58 patients with subluxation and dislocation. CONCLUSIONS: Osteoporosis can have a significant impact on oral health.

Bridging Oral and Systemic Health in Children with Prader-Willi Syndrome: Case Reports and Dental Treatment Recommendations.

BACKGROUND: Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder caused by gene alterations on chromosome 15q11-q13, resulting in hyperphagia and neuroendocrine deficits. A comprehensive guide for dental treatment for PWS is lacking despite numerous case reports. The objective of this report was to develop a problem-focused list of the interrelationship between oral and systemic parameters of PWS and enable dentists in anticipating the unique treatment needs of children and individuals with PWS. METHODS: Four pediatric patients with PWS presenting to an academic dental clinic were evaluated. A literature review spanning the last twenty years was performed to identify the pathophysiological impact of systemic problems on dental health and treatment. RESULTS: The four cases along with cases from the literature were used to enumerate salient oro-dental and systemic features influencing treatment decisions in dentistry. They formed the basis for collective recommendations and precautions for rendering dental treatment in patients with PWS. CONCLUSION: Sedation for dental treatment is contraindicated due to obesity (BMI over 95th percentile), hypotonia, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and respiratory limitations (restricted ventilation due to weight on thoracic cage). Prolonged recovery from general anesthesia, OSA, and temperature dysregulation necessitate extended monitoring after dental rehabilitation under general anesthesia. Orthopedic problems and respiratory limitations exclude protective stabilization. Xerostomia and acidic saliva necessitate recommendations for oral rehydrating products. Periodontal assessment is necessary due to poor oral hygiene and diabetes mellitus. Early establishment of a dental home and risk-based frequency of dental care should address caries prevention and restorative needs.

Evaluation of the xerostomia, taste and smell impairments after Covid-19 / Evaluación de la xerostomía, alteraciones del gusto y del olfato tras el Covid-19

Background: The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of coronavirus disease 19 (Covid-19) on the oralcavity by evaluating the oral findings in the patients who recovered after treatment.Material and Methods: This study involved confirmed Covid-19 patients whose treatment completed at least twoweeks ago. A questionnaire consist of eight parts was applied to explore the oral findings after Covid-19. Alsostimulated salivary flow rate was evaluated with a salivary flow test.Results: 177 patients reached and 107 of them participate in the study. Regarding gender significant differenceswere found in terms of the presence of taste impairment after treatment (p=0.007), the degree of taste (p=0.021)and smell (p=0.010) impairment. 18 % (5/27) of the patients evaluated were showed hyposalivation. No significantdifferences were observed regarding salivary flow between males (mean±SD: 1.14±0.65) and females (mean±SD:1.12±0.43), (p=0.928); among the patients having treatment at home (mean±SD: 1.03±0.48) or hospital (mean±SD:1.33±0.65), (p=0.187). In some of the patients’ taste [15], smell [23] impairment, and xerostomia [43] still observedat least two weeks after the treatment is completed.Conclusions: The most frequent finding in patients after the treatment was xerostomia. Taste and smell impair-ments were more frequently observed in females.(AU)

Symptom-orientated oral hygiene for children after heart transplantation: Effectiveness of a standardized prophylactic program.

Children with CHD, especially heart-transplanted patients, are predisposed to have caries lesions, gingivitis and other oral findings like gingival hyperplasia. The aim of the study was the implementation of a specific oral hygiene program in these patients and its effect on the improvement of oral health, especially gingival overgrowth. For this, we used a newly developed systematic GHI to evaluate and describe this gingival alteration. Thirty-three children, aged 6 to 15 years with cardiac transplants (9 girls, 24 boys), were examined and introduced into a specific oral hygiene program. Each child showed evidence of gingival hyperplasia. They were randomly divided into three groups with the following oral care measurements: Group ZZ tooth brushing, Group ZZS tooth brushing and mouth rinsing, Group ZZSS tooth brushing, mouth rinsing and the use of an additional single and sulcus toothbrush. A significant decline of all oral health parameters could be proven in all groups. Gingival hyperplasia (GHI) improved as well as plaque accumulation (QHI). The children who used in addition to toothbrushing rinsing solutions and/or additional miniature toothbrushes showed better parameters of the gingival hygiene indexes from the baseline examination until the end of the study. The results show that any infant with cardiac transplant has to be introduced into an individualized oral hygiene program underlining the need of comprehensive dental care in cooperation with pediatric cardiology.

Assessment of knowledge level about acquired immune deficiency syndrome and patient approaches of dental students.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge about HIV, and intraoral signs that can be seen in HIV positive patients and the interpretation of attitudes toward HIV positive patients of fourth- and fifth-grade students at Marmara University Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul, Turkey. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In our study, a questionnaire consisting of 23 questions was applied to 100 fourth- and 100 fifth-grade students totalling 200 dental students who are educated in Marmara University Faculty of Dentistry. Besides the knowledge level of the students, their attitudes were evaluated using the survey conducted. Chi-square (or Fisher's exact test at appropriate locations) was used to examine the relationship between categorical variables. Statistical significance level was determined as P < 0.05. RESULTS: Of the 200 participants, 46 (23.0%) were males and 154 (77.0%) were females. One hundred people (50%) are fourth grade, 100 people (50%) are fifth grade. The rate of fifth grade agreements for the question "Treatment of HIV positive patient increases the risk of transmission of HIV infection to dentist" was statistically higher than that of fourth-grade students (Fisher's exact P < 0,05). Fifth-grade knowledge of oral symptoms of HIV/AIDS was statistically higher than fourth grades (Fisher's exact P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: As the grade level increases, the knowledge about HIV/AIDS raises portraying a relevant approach to patients with AIDS. Comprehensive training and motivation for improving dentistry students' awareness against HIV-positive patients will also improve knowledge and attitudes of the students that enable them to take better care of HIV-positive patients.

Oral and dental findings in Bardet-Biedl syndrome: A case report.

Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder. This syndrome is associated with 19 genes present, and 80% of the cases are determined as a clinical diagnosis result. A 15-year-old female presented with a complaint of gingival bleeding during brushing. As a result of received detailed history and the intraoral-extraoral examinations; retinal dystrophy, obesity, polydactyly, and renal defects of Caucasian female consistent with BBS were reported. Oral and dental findings were high-arched palate, crowding, and missing tooth. As dentists, we should know the diagnostic criteria of this syndrome. In addition, we should have a high index of suspicion so as to enhance the timely recognition of this condition. Dentists should also be familiar with the management protocol that includes a multidisciplinary approach to alleviate the existing conditions.

Oral-Facial-Digital Syndrome Type 1: Oral Findings in a 6-Year-Old Girl.

Oral-facial-digital syndrome (OFDS) is a group of congenital anomalies with 13 different forms. OFDS type 1 (OFDS1) is a developmental genetic anomaly related to the X chromosome, that is often seen in girls, and affects the face, oral cavity, and extremities. In this study, we discuss the oral findings of a 6-year-old girl with OFDS1 and her situation after 2.5 years.

Asociación entre hallazgos bucales y enfermedad renal en pacientes pediátricos en Venezuela / Association between oral findings and renal disease among pediatric patients in Venezuela

La cavidad oral puede mostrar signos clínicos de enfermedades renales que pasan desapercibidos. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la asociación entre defectos del esmalte (DDE), cálculo dental, bajo peso, baja talla y el diagnóstico de disfunciones tubulares simples o tubulopatías entre 256 pacientes pediátricos (160 con tubulopatías simples y 96 controles sanos) en un importante hospital urbano de Valencia, Venezuela. La frecuencia de DDE en el grupo con tubulopatías fue de 56.25% y en controles de 29.2%, cálculo dental 26.9% y 10.4%, respectivamente. Los modelos de regresión logística revelaron la presencia de DDE (p = 0.000), cálculo dental (p = 0.002), bajo peso (p = 0.000) y baja talla (p = 0.000); cada una de estas características por separado presentó una asociación estadísticamente significativa con tubulopatías. Los niños con DDE tienen 2.7 más posibilidades de afección renal que los que no presentan DDE (Wald = 11.263 y p-valor = 0.001), también los pacientes con cálculo dental son 2.3 veces más propensos a padecer tubulopatías que los que no lo tienen (Wald = 4.076 y p-valor = 0.043) y los niños con bajo peso tienen 53.7% más probabilidad de presentar disfunción tubular simple (Wald = 4.751 y p-valor = 0.029). De allí que se puede afi rmar que la ocurrencia de tubulopatías tiene una asociación estadísticamente significativa con la presencia de DDE, cálculo dental y bajo peso. Estos datos pueden contribuir a que en la consulta odontopediátrica se aumente el número de referencia de niños con tubulopatías por la asociación de las variables mencionadas (AU)

The oral cavity may show clinical signs of renal diseases that go unnoticed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between enamel dental defects (EDD), dental calculus, low weight, low height and the diagnosis of simple tubular dysfunctions or tubulopathies among 256 pediatric patients (160 with simple tubulopathies and 96 healthy controls) in an important urban hospital of Valencia, Venezuela. The frequency of EDD in the group with tubulopathies was 56.25% and in controls 29.2%, dental calculus 26.9%, and 10.4%, respectively. The logistic regression models re-vealed that the presence of DDE (p = 0.000), dental calculus (p = 0.002), low weight (p = 0.000) and low size (p = 0.000), each of these characteristics Patients presented a statistically signifi cant association with the presence of tubulopathies. Children with EDD are 2.7 times more likely to have renal disease than those without EDD (Wald = 11.263 and p-value = 0.001); patients with dental calculus are 2.3 times more likely to have tubulopathies than (Wald = 4.076 and p-value = 0.043) and children with low weight were 53.7% more likely to have simple tubular dysfunction (Wald = 4.751 and p-value = 0.029). Hence, it can be affi rmed that the occurrence of tubulopathies has a statistically signifi cant association with the presence of DDE, dental calculus, and low weight. These data may contribute to the increase in the reference number of children with tubulopathies by the association of the mentioned variables (AU)