Paracoccidioidomicosis: Manifestaciones orales e implicaciones sistémicas

Abstract

Paracoccidioidomycosis is an infection caused by the p. brasiliensis fungus. This is a deep, systemic fungal infection considered endemic in Brazil and some Latin American countries. The fungus is acquired by inhalation, resulting in a pulmonary disease which may also affect the skin, oral, nasal and gastrointestinal mucosa, as well as the spleen and liver. Patients commonly present lymphadenopathy. The resulting adrenal gland and visceral involvement can be fatal. Oral lesions are often very painful leading the patient to the dentist or stomatologist for a clinical evaluation. Early diagnosis is the best way to avoid serious complications of the disease. The growing number of Latin immigrants may increase the prevalence of this important disease in the European Community, therefore, the knowledge of the clinical characteristics of this infection by European dentists is essential to early diagnosis.