Search

New results concerning the etiology of recurrent aphthae are reported. According to own experiments of the authors, adenoviruses persisting in the epithelial cells of the oral mucosa may sensitize the aphthous patient. Adenovirus antigen was demonstrable in the oral mucosa cells in more than 50% of the patients and in the lymphocytes in approx. 1% of the patients. Lymphoblast transformation in the circulating lymphocytes could be demonstrated in vitro with heat-inactivated type 1 adenovirus, in 75% of the patients. This virus type has been isolated from 2 patients. Köbner's isomorphous phenomenon could be demonstrated in aphthous patients. The use of a disinfectant for mouth rinsing, the removal of foci as well as vitamin treatment are recommended for preventing recurrent aphthae.

It is important that the dentist knows about disturbances of blood coagulation during and after hemo-dialysis, so that he avoids administration of platelet-inhibiting medication like aspirin and that he recognizes radiologically visible signs of insufficient dialysis in the jaws. Because of the reduced protection from infections, antibiotic prophylaxis should be carried out before every dental operation, the medication of choice being penicillin. Due to the high rate of infection by the hepatitis B virus, adequate protection is required.