Oral manifestation of opportunistic infection and HIV associated malignancy

Oral manifestations of HIV are common and have been important in identification of patients harbouring the HIV virus and in predicting suppression of their immune system. Careful history taking and detailed examination of the patient’s oral cavity are important parts of the physical examination. Many HIV-associated oral disorders occur early in HIV infection, not infrequently as the presenting sign or symptom. Thus, early detection of associated oral disease should, in many cases, result in earlier diagnosis of HIV infection. Likewise, awareness of the variety of oral disorders which can develop throughout the course of HIV infection, and coordination of healthcare services between physician and dentist, should improve overall health and comfort of the patient. Present review discusses common oral disorders associated with HIV infection.