XEROSTOMIA IN BURNING MOUTH SYNDROME: A DRY SEA OR DIFFERENT WATER?

Abstract

<h3>Objectives</h3> The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation of xerostomia symptoms with alterations in salivary flow and composition in patients with burning mouth syndrome (BMS). <h3>Study Design</h3> A database search was performed retrieving studies that evaluated the salivary flow and saliva components in patients diagnosed with BMS and associated symptoms such as xerostomia. <h3>Results</h3> Oral complaints such as dry mouth and dysgeusia are common in patients with BMS. Most literature agrees that patients with BMS do not show hyposalivation, regardless of the mensuration method. In salivary composition, α-amylase and IgA may be increased. Also, the salivary total protein increase can directly affect the lubricating function of saliva. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Xerostomia is a regular complaint of patients with BMS despite normal salivary flow. Except for total protein increase, the salivary changes do not seem to have a direct connection with xerostomia. We believe that xerostomia in BMS derives from more complex pathologic mechanisms.