Gingival Necrosis Associated with Septic Shock of Unknown Origin in Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report

Abstract

A 38-year-old woman with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus presented at our university hospital with fever, fatigue, and oral pain and was urgently admitted based on a diagnosis of septic shock. Initially, dental infection was suspected based on the symptoms and clinical presentation of purpura accompanied by severe tenderness along the marginal gingiva in the maxilla and mandible. However, subsequent investigations, including an oral examination, radiographic studies, and blood cultures, ruled out dental infection as the cause of the septic shock. The patient received antibiotic therapy and was discharged on Day 16 after admission, with no definitive source of the infection yet being identified. The gingiva around where the purpura was observed on Day 1 gradually necrosed and detached, leading to ulcer formation by Day 8 and gingival recession by Day 15. Gingival necrosis was attributed to septic shock-induced neutropenia and circulatory disturbances, indicating the severity of the systemic conditions. Follow-up after discharge revealed no recurrence. This case underscores the importance of recognising oral symptoms as potential precursors to severe systemic conditions such as septic shock. Timely intervention and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential in effectively managing such cases. Further research is warranted to elucidate the relationship between oral health and systemic diseases to enable clinicians to provide optimal patient care.