THE IMPACT OF GUT MICROBIOTA ON RECURRENT APHTHOUS STOMATITIS

Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (RAS) is a prevalent oral mucosal disorder characterized by recurring painful ulcers. The pathogenesis of RAS remains incompletely understood, but emerging evidence suggests a significant link between gut microbiota and the development of RAS. This review aims to explore the existing literature on the interplay between gut microbiota and RAS, focusing on how intestinal dysbiosis may influence the onset and severity of RAS. We discuss the role of gut microbiota in immune modulation, the breakdown of oral tolerance, and the possible pathways through which gut bacteria can affect oral health. Additionally, we examine the impact of diet, antibiotics, and probiotics on the gut microbiota and, subsequently, on RAS. The review concludes with potential therapeutic strategies targeting gut microbiota to manage and prevent RAS, paving the way for novel interventions in this field

NEW INSIGHTS INTO THE PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF GEOGRAPHIC TONGUE

Geographic Tongue (GT), also known as benign migratory glossitis, is a benign inflammatory condition characterised by irregular, smooth, red patches on the tongue surface, often with a white or light-coloured border. Despite being a common oral condition, its pathophysiology remains poorly understood. This review aims to shed light on the latest insights into the pathophysiology of GT, exploring its etiological factors, immunological aspects, and potential genetic predispositions. We discuss the role of environmental factors, such as stress and dietary habits, and delve into the immunopathological mechanisms that may contribute to the manifestation of GT. The review also examines the possible genetic and epigenetic factors involved in GT and their interaction with environmental triggers. Recent advancements in molecular biology and genetics offer new perspectives in understanding the complex nature of GT, paving the way for improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This review concludes with a discussion on the potential future directions in GT research, focusing on the need for larger epidemiological studies and the exploration of novel therapeutic targets

DERMATOSCOPIC INSIGHTS INTO THE MOST COMMON POTENTIALLY MALIGNANT ORAL LESIONS

The early detection and accurate diagnosis of potentially malignant oral lesions, such as actinic cheilitis, leukoplakia, and oral lichen planus, are crucial for improving patient outcomes. Dermatoscopy, a non-invasive diagnostic technique, offers enhanced visualisation of these lesions, enabling precise assessment of morphological features critical for early recognition and differential diagnosis. This article aims to present dermatoscopic findings from cases of these common conditions, highlighting their importance in refining clinical management. Dermatoscopy not only improves diagnostic accuracy by revealing detailed lesion characteristics but also assists in evaluating malignancy risk, monitoring progression, and guiding the decision-making process for biopsy and treatment. While biopsy remains definitive for diagnosis, dermatoscopy serves as a valuable preliminary tool. Future research should focus on establishing standardised dermatoscopic criteria for oral lesions and integrating dermatoscopy into regular oral health evaluations to advance patient care

THE IMPACT OF SYSTEMIC CORTICOSTEROID THERAPY ON ORAL HEALTH: COMPLICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES

Corticosteroids, including glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and androgenic hormones, are hormonal mediators produced by the adrenal glands and are widely used in the treatment of various conditions, including dental diseases. While systemic corticosteroid therapy offers significant therapeutic benefits, it is crucial to understand the potential adverse effects on oral health. This paper aims to highlight the impact of systemic corticosteroid therapy on oral health, focusing particularly on the associated complications and management strategies. The paper emphasizes specific complications that may occur in the oral cavity as a result of corticosteroid use, the most important being an increased susceptibility to oral infections such as candidiasis and impaired bone metabolism, with a significant reduction in the mineral density of the mandibular bone (BMD), as well as delayed wound healing, the occurrence of oral ulcers, and changes in the oral microbiome. Furthermore, the importance of rigorous oral care and regular dental monitoring for patients undergoing systemic corticosteroid therapy is underlined. The role of oral health specialists in the early detection and efficient management of oral complications, as well as patient education regarding proper oral hygiene practices and possible side effects, is of crucial importance. In conclusion, it is essential for healthcare providers to be vigilant regarding the potential oral health complications associated with systemic corticosteroid therapy, and early detection, prevention, and the implementation of appropriate management strategies are fundamental for optimizing oral health outcomes in patients undergoing corticosteroid treatment

EMERGING USE OF JANUS KINASE INHIBITORS FOR ORAL LICHEN PLANUS

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory condition that poses significant therapeutic challenges. Emerging evidence suggests that topical Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors could represent a novel treatment paradigm for OLP. This review explores the pathophysiology of OLP, highlighting the role of the JAK-STAT pathway in its pathogenesis. We discuss the current landscape of topical JAK inhibitors, including their mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety profile. The review also examines recent clinical trials and observational studies that shed light on the potential of these agents in managing OLP. Finally, we provide a perspective on the future of JAK inhibitors in the context of OLP treatment, considering both their therapeutic potential and the need for further research

ANGULAR CHEILITIS: A MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT

Angular Cheilitis (AC) represents a multifaceted oral pathology characterized by erythematous lesions at the labial commissures. Despite its prevalence, AC is often inadequately addressed due to its polymorphic etiology, which can encompass infectious agents, nutritional deficits, and systemic conditions. This article provides a systematic review of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and etiological factors of AC, including nutritional deficiencies, infectious agents, and systemic diseases. Emphasizing a multidisciplinary strategy, we discuss the collaborative roles of dental, medical, and dermatological expertise in the accurate diagnosis and effective management of AC. We outline diagnostic criteria, appropriate laboratory tests, and imaging techniques tailored to address the multifaceted nature of the condition. Management strategies encompass a range of options from topical treatments and medications to dietary modifications and preventative measures, with an emphasis on evidence-based practices. This review advocates for integrated care models to optimize treatment efficacy, patient compliance, and to mitigate the recurrence of AC. Our analysis aims to enhance the understanding of AC and to provide a framework for its management, contributing to better patient care and opening avenues for future research

SALIVA AS A DIAGNOSTIC TOOL: INSIGHTS INTO ORAL CANCER BIOMARKERS

This narrative review highlights the emerging role of salivary markers in the detection of oral cancer. Saliva contains diverse biomolecules that can provide valuable information on physiological and pathological processes in the body, including specific biomarkers that indicate the presence and progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Salivary markers have the potential to transform the diagnosis and management of malignant oral lesions by offering a non-invasive approach to screening and monitoring the disease. This review examines the current state of knowledge regarding salivary markers in oral cancer, including their advantages over traditional biopsy-based techniques, limitations, and the need for further research. It concludes by outlining the future prospects of salivary biomarkers in oral cancer detection and management

ORAL MANIFESTATIONS OF VIRAL INFECTIONS IN IMMUNOCOMPROMISED CANCER PATIENTS

Immunodeficiencies induced by chemotherapy make cancer patients vulnerable to to reactivation of latent viruses and to primary viral infections caused by exposure to environmental factors, such as air, water, microbial flora and debris. Patients with hematological cancers are more prone than patients with solid tumors to develop viral infections that affect the oral cavity due to high-dose chemotherapy regimens and prolonged immunosuppression. Viruses of the Herpetoviridae family (herpes simplex, varicella, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr) and human papillomavirus cause mouth pain with difficulties in eating and oral ulcerations that can spread, leading to life-threatening systemic infection. Therapeutic approaches for the more severe and atypical oral manifestations seen in cancer immunosuppressed patients include inhibitors of virus replication, antivirals, surgical excision and analgesics, but the painful oral lesions are associated with longer healing times. The differential diagnosis of a oral ulcers in cancer patients is broad, but it should include various viral infections