Orofacial manifestations of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis: a case series from Brazil

Abstract

Dentists play a fundamental role in the early diagnosis of oral leishmaniasis. Although these lesions are rare at oral mucosa, this is one of the manifestations sites of the disease This study reports seven clinical cases of orofacial mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. All had leishmaniasis diagnosis confirmed by laboratory tests, with orofacial involvement. Five out of the seven cases were males, and in four cases, patients had associated comorbidities. Late diagnosis was observed, resulting in treatment delay and increased hospitalization stay. One patient had severe psychological consequences due to facial deformity. The lack of differential diagnosis due the great variability of clinical presentation of the lesions and frequent unspecific histopathology represent a challenge for the dentist. In two reported cases, there were unspecific biopsy results. This series of cases highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the diagnosis and treatment of oral and perioral leishmaniasis. Patients with atypical lesions, originating from or living in endemic regions, should be investigated for leishmaniasis. These procedures could avoid delays in diagnosis and decrease the risk of disease dissemination.