Oral findings in 58 adults with tuberous sclerosis complex

Abstract

Gingival fibromas and dental pitting are among the diagnostic criteria for tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Our goal was to document the oral findings in 58 adult patients with TSC. Forty patients (69%) had oral fibromas, appearing mostly on the attached or interdental gingiva. Other oral mucosal sites with fibromas included buccal and labial mucosa, the superior labial frenulum, palate, and tongue. In all, 56 patients (97%) had multiple dental enamel pits. This case series comprised predominantly adult women with TSC and lymphangioleiomyomatosis. Oral fibromas in TSC are mostly, but not exclusively, gingival. Dental pits are present in nearly all patients. The multiple oral papules in TSC may appear similar to those observed in Cowden syndrome, Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome, and rarely in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1.