2012 Mouth Ulcerations and Lupus

Mouth Ulcerations Are A Common Symptom Of Lupus

Mouth ulcerations are estimated to affect 5 to 40% of lupus patients. They consist of white or red lesions, not necessarily painful, on the inside of the cheek, gums, palate and lips.  There is no evidence in the literature that lupus causes an increase in. However, two other factors may complicate the oral health of the lupus patient.

Lupus Symptoms:

First, many patients with lupus will also have secondary Sjogren's syndrome, which results in reduced saliva and tear production, and manifests in dryness affecting the mouth and eyes. Reduced salivary flow increases one's risk of a variety of oral maladies such as oral infection along with difficulty with speaking, eating, and swallowing.

Second, many of the medications prescribed to manage lupus have adverse affects that can affect the mouth. Prescribed steroids suppress the immune system and can increase one's risk of an oral fungal infection and poor wound healing. Drugs such as Plaquenil and methotrexate may themselves cause oral sores or ulcerations. Over 400 medications result in some degree of oral dryness, which worsens the Sjogren's syndrome.

Source:  Lupus Foundation of America

Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309