Oral findings in people with or at high risk for AIDS: a study of 375 homosexual males

A total of 375 consecutively identified homosexual, males were studied to assess dental findings, needs, and risks. The oral signs and symptoms that may be used to recognize people infected with the AIDS virus are defined to help dental professionals participate in health care delivery. A total of 375 homosexual males were studied to assess the dental findings, life-style, and risk factors during a 4-year period. At baseline, 136 of the patients were diagnosed as having AIDS, 116 were considered at risk for AIDS, and 123 were considered healthy. In a mean follow-up time of 23 months, nine of the patients at risk for AIDS and five of the patients considered healthy were diagnosed as having AIDS. Kaposi’s sarcoma was the most common oral neoplasm, and candidiasis was the most frequent oral infection. Hairy leukoplakia was found in 28% of the patients, and periodontal disease was found in 17% of the patients. Carriers of the AIDS virus may not be identified easily and control measures in the dental office must be followed.