Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Characterization of Short Root Anomaly in Chloroquine-Induced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome - A Case Report

Abstract

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare medical condition with severe mucocutaneous reaction due to infection or adverse drug reaction. The present case reports the impact of chloroquine-induced SJS on the tooth root development. A 20-year-old Indian male reported to conservative dentistry and endodontics speciality clinic with the chief complaint of food lodgement and sensitivity in maxillary and mandibular posterior teeth. He had a past medical history of severe cutaneous reaction after taking Tab. Lariago (chloroquine) for treatment of malarial fever at the age of 8 years. The acute inflammatory immune response was managed by hospitalization and administration of steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs. Clinical examination revealed dry mucosa, carious teeth with adequate oral hygiene. Panoramic X-ray showed multiple teeth with short roots. A detailed cone beam computed tomographic scan (CBCT) demonstrated a healthy bone trabecular pattern with the absence of any periapical radiolucency. Short, blunt roots with immature apex were seen in many teeth. Based upon the measurement of root to the crown ratio on the CBCT scan and correlating the development status of teeth with the medical history, a diagnosis of short root anomaly (SRA) after chloroquine-induced SJS was made. This is the first report to describe the three-dimensional features of teeth with SRA in a patient with SJS. Diagnostic, restorative, and endodontic implications of SJS are highlighted.