Endodontic Treatment in HIV Patients: important oral manifestations and basic preventive standards

Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) has changed its evolutionary pattern into an additional chronic one, due to the introduction of a new therapeutic regimen. Critical HIV infection is an illness that develops within two to four weeks of contracting HIV. HIV leads to a weaker immune system by attacking the immune system of the affected individual and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is induced by HIV. HIV can be transmitted via various routes including unprotected sex and multiple needle use. Oral health care is an important component of the management of patients with HIV. Endodontic treatment, particularly in immunocompromised patients may be correlated with endodontic outcomes. Many studies have reported a higher prevalence of dental caries and other oral manifestations. This article explores current approaches, clinical considerations, and treatment outcomes for patients with HIV undergoing endodontic procedures. The search was performed by prioritizing studies in English published in the last 10 years. 54 articles were analyzed to compose the integrative review concerning the subject. Various studies have shown that 70 to 90% of HIV-infected subjects will develop at least one oral manifestation in their lifetime and that the apparition of severe presentations can suggest a progression toward AIDS. Endodontic treatment for HIV-positive patients requires a multidisciplinary approach. Association between these specialists is critical to ensure effective treatment.