Leukemia is the most common malignancy of white blood cells (leukocytes), affecting both children and adults. It is characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of immature cells in the bone marrow, which gradually replace healthy blood-forming cells and infiltrate various tissues throughout the body.
Among the diverse clinical manifestations of leukemia, oral signs are often overlooked despite their diagnostic importance. In some patients, oral symptoms may even precede systemic signs, serving as early indicators of the disease. Common oral manifestations include gingival enlargement, spontaneous bleeding, oral ulcers, petechiae (small red or purple spots), hematomas, and pale oral mucosa. Additionally, head and neck lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) is frequently observed.
These manifestations result either from the direct infiltration of leukemic cells into oral tissues or indirectly from impaired blood cell production, leading to anemia, leukopenia (low white blood cell count), and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).
Dental professionals and allied oral health care providers play a critical role in identifying these signs. Prompt recognition and referral can significantly accelerate the diagnostic process, leading to earlier treatment initiation and improved outcomes.
A thorough intraoral and extraoral examination is essential, along with careful assessment of the potential causes of lesions in the head and neck region. Early detection not only facilitates timely medical intervention but also contributes to reducing treatment-related complications, enhancing prognosis, and lowering disease-related morbidity and mortality.
Oral manifestations can appear in both acute and chronic forms of leukemia and are particularly common during the acute phase. Dental care for individuals with leukemia should prioritize the prevention of injury, control of gingival bleeding by removing plaque biofilm, and management of oral infections. Maintaining good oral hygiene—through gentle toothbrushing, use of fluoride, and adherence to a non-cariogenic (low-sugar) diet—is vital throughout treatment.
At CellSight Diagnosis, we believe in the power of early detection. By raising awareness of these critical oral indicators, we aim to support healthcare professionals in identifying leukemia at its earliest and most treatable stages.
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