Dentistry

Abstract

Syndromes That Include Both Palmoplantar Keratoderma And Severe Periodontitis: A Review

Dababneh RH and Bissada NF

Palmoplantar keratodermas (PPK) include a heterogeneous group of disorders with overlapping clinical features. The main aspect of PPK is thickening and hyperkeratosis of the palmar and plantar skin, that may be hereditary or acquired; diffuse, focal, or punctuate; and transgrediens or progrediens. PPKs are further distinguished by their mode of inheritance and by the presence of certain associated clinical features. Periodontitis was reported in association with more than one syndrome characterized by PPK. An extensively reported one is the Papillon-Lefevre syndrome (PLS) which is characterized by early onset of PPK and periodontitis affecting the primary and secondary dentitions. In addition to PLS, Haim-Munk, HOPP, Variant Carvajal and Weary-Kindler are other syndromes manifested by PPK and reported in association with severe periodontitis. Atypical cases of PLS were also reported, such as partial expression or a late presentation of the syndrome. The aim of this articleis to critically review the literature concerned with Papillon-Lefevre syndrome in its typical and atypical clinical presentation, in addition to other syndromes manifested at the same time by PPK and severe periodontitis. Thorough history and medical examination, together with periodontal, dermatologic, and genetic counseling, are important to exclude other existing medical conditions or other syndromes that might need special attention and care.