Oral Presentation

SICKLE CELL ANEMIA: DENTAL CONSIDERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT – A CASE REPORT

Dr. Arun Mamachan Xavier

Reader Dept. of Pediatric Dentistry Amrita School of Dentistry Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University Cochin, Kerala, India.

Background:

The phenomenon of erythrocyte sickling observed in sickle cell anaemia is responsible for ischaemia and tissue infarction compromising several organs and systems including the mouth and face. It is a genetically derived disorder characterized by the presence of an abnormal hemoglobin molecule, designated as hemoglobin S (HbS). This report presents the case of a 4-year-old male diagnosed with sickle cell disease with a history of recurrent splenic sequestration and recent splenectomy.

Methods:

Oral examination revealed caries lesions in all teeth except the lower anteriors, mucosal pallor, and a “smooth tongue”. An oral pantamograph revealed bone rarefaction and trabecular bone coarsening. Medical investigations that followed gave the final impression of sickle cell anemia. Complete oral rehabilitation was completed after a series of challenges and precautions that will be discussed.

Conclusion:

Dental surgeons and physicians should be aware of the general and oral abnormalities that can be present in individuals with sickle cell anaemia to allow for preventive measures and implementation of effective treatment options.

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