Search Results (180)

Schaalia canis is a Gram-positive, facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped bacterium originally isolated from the mucosa and skin of dogs. While it is a part of the normal canine oral flora, it has rarely been implicated in human disease, with only one prior case of cellulitis reported following a dog bite. Case Presentation: We present the case of a 57-year-old immunocompetent man who developed osteomyelitis of the left index finger following a delayed presentation after a dog bite. Despite initial conservative management with empirical oral antibiotics, the infection progressed, eventually requiring surgical debridement and the terminalisation of the finger at the proximal interphalangeal joint. Cultures from intraoperative bone specimens yielded the growth of Schaalia canis, with no other pathogenic organisms identified on the extended culture. Conclusions: This is the first documented case of Schaalia canis-associated osteomyelitis in a human and the first to necessitate a surgical intervention, expanding the known clinical spectrum of this organism. This case underscores the risks of delayed intervention in polymicrobial animal bite wounds and highlights the emerging role of Schaalia species as opportunistic zoonotic pathogens, particularly in the setting of deep, refractory infections. Full article

Secukinumab (SEC) is a recombinant, fully human monoclonal antibody that is selective for interleukin-17A (IL-17A). SEC may increase the risk of developing infections such as oral herpes and oral candidiasis. The aim of this case report and literature review was to describe chronic hyperplastic candidiasis (CHC) in a patient with psoriasis (PsO) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) treated with SEC. CHC is a rare and atypical clinical entity. A definitive diagnosis requires biopsy of the oral mucosa for histopathological diagnosis (PHD). The differential diagnosis includes hairy tongue, hairy leukoplakia, oral lichen planus (OLP), oral lichenoid reaction (OLR), leukoplakia, frictional keratosis, morsication, oral psoriasis, syphilis, and oral lesions associated with coronavirus disease (COVID-19). In addition to the usual factors (xerostomia, smoking, antibiotics, vitamin deficiency, immunosuppression, comorbidities), the new biological therapies/immunotherapies are a predisposing factor for oral candidiasis. The therapeutic approach must be multidisciplinary and in consultation with a clinical immunologist. Dentists and specialists (oral medicine, dermatologists, rheumatologists) must be familiar with the oral adverse events of the new biological therapies. Simultaneous monitoring of patients by clinical immunology and oral medicine specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis and therapeutic intervention to avoid possible adverse events and improve quality of life (QoL). Full article

Background/Objectives: Oral cavity wound recovery presents unique challenges due to constant moisture exposure and functional mechanical stresses. Nanoscale extracellular vesicles (exosomes) with regenerative properties offer promising therapeutic potential for tissue regeneration, contributing to improved health outcomes. This study evaluated human exosomal preparations in promoting oral mucosal regeneration. Methods: We established standardized full-thickness wounds in the buccal mucosa of SD rats and divided subjects into experimental (receiving 50 billion human exosomes) and control (receiving carrier solution only) groups. Comprehensive wound assessment occurred at predetermined intervals (days 0, 3, 7, and 10) through photographic documentation, histological examination, and quantitative measurement. Results: Exosomal-treated tissues demonstrated statistically significant acceleration in closure rates (p < 0.05), achieving 87.3% reduction by day 10 versus 64.1% in the controls. Microscopic analysis revealed superior epithelial development, reduced inflammatory infiltration, and enhanced collagen architectural organization in exosomal-treated specimens. Semi-quantitative evaluation confirmed consistently superior healing metrics in the experimental group across all assessment timepoints. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that human exosome preparations significantly enhance oral mucosal regeneration in SD rats, suggesting potential clinical applications for accelerating recovery following oral surgical procedures. Full article

This scoping review explores the expression patterns and molecular features of sarcoglycans (SGs) in non-muscle organs, challenging the long-standing assumption that their function is confined to skeletal and cardiac muscle. By analyzing evidence from both animal models and human studies, the review highlights the widespread presence of SG subunits in organs, including the nervous system, glands, adipose tissue, oral mucosa, retina, and other structures, with distinct regional and cell-type-specific patterns. Studies on the central nervous system demonstrate a widespread “spot-like” distribution of SG subunits in neurons and glial cells, implicating their involvement in synaptic organization and neurotransmission. Similarly, SGs maintain cellular integrity and homeostasis in glands and adipose tissue. At the same time, the altered expression of SGs is associated with pathological conditions in the gingival epithelium of the oral mucosa. These findings underscore the multifaceted roles of SGs beyond muscle, suggesting that they may contribute to cellular signaling, membrane stability, and neurovascular coupling. However, significant gaps remain regarding SG post-translational modifications and functional implications in non-muscle organs. Future research integrating molecular, cellular, and functional approaches in animal models and human tissues is essential to fully elucidate these roles and explore their potential as therapeutic targets in various diseases. Full article

Background: Aquaporins (AQPs) are integral membrane proteins that facilitate water transport across biological membranes. While their role is well-characterized in various tissues, their function in the oral cavity remains poorly understood. Saliva is an easily accessible, non-invasive biofluid that contains stable extracellular RNA and can reflect both systemic and local physiological or pathological processes, making it a promising source for RNA analyses. This study investigates AQP mRNA levels in human saliva. Methods: Saliva samples were collected from patients of a dental practice and analyzed using quantitative PCR to detect AQP levels. An in silico analysis of AQPs in cells of the oral cavity were performed. Baseline data of the patients were recorded. Results: Our findings demonstrate the presence of multiple AQP subtypes in human saliva. AQP5 was the most abundant, followed by AQP9 and AQP1. The levels of several AQPs showed intercorrelation, whereas AQP3 appeared to be independently regulated and did not correlate with the other AQPs. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that differential AQP mRNA levels can be detected in human saliva. These findings suggest that salivary AQP mRNA may serve as surrogate markers for altered AQP levels in cells of the oral cavity. In the future, such patterns of AQP levels could potentially be used to identify or monitor pathological conditions affecting the oral mucosa or salivary glands. Further studies are required to validate this approach and to understand its diagnostic relevance. Full article

This study first examines the potential of using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to extract molecular and organizational markers from human oral mucosa. These indicators are then examined in relation to age and pathophysiological conditions. Oral mucosa biopsies were collected from 38 patients during surgical procedures and analyzed using FTIR and DSC-validated protocols. The patients were divided into two age groups, namely 20–40 and 70–90 years. Vibrational markers of the lamina propria and epithelium, including lipid-to-protein and collagen-to-protein ratios and lipid order, were extracted from the FTIR spectra of both layers. Hydration levels and collagen thermal stability were determined from DSC thermograms of the entire biopsy. The preliminary findings of this study, which will require further validation in a larger patient cohort, indicate a significant decrease in bound water content and collagen denaturation temperature in the older population. This suggests that oral mucosa undergoes structural dehydration and collagen destabilization with age. Further comparisons within the older group revealed links between biophysical markers of the oral mucosa and chronic or local pathologies. Patients with cardiovascular diseases exhibit altered collagen organization, while patients with diabetes display differences in the lipid-to-protein ratio and the order of lipid chains in the epithelium. Gingivitis is associated with variations in the collagen-to-protein ratio, which supports the role of inflammation in extracellular matrix remodeling. Full article

Background: Stereolithography is a rapid prototyping and 3D printing technique that creates solid three-dimensional models. An accurate and functional 3D model using stereolithography is invaluable in scientific research, particularly in studies involving edentulous patients. Additive manufacture and CAD systems help achieve accurate measurements and procedures and be easily replicated by lowering human error mistakes. The main objective of this study was to develop an in vitro simulation model with a reduced alveolar ridge with the same characteristics as mandibular edentulous patients using stereolithography. Methods: A mandibular model with a resorbed mandibular crest was scanned, and the STL model was aligned to the XYZ reference system. A reduction in the alveolar ridge corresponding to the mandibular mucosa of an edentulous patient was achieved. A negative model also derived from the original model was made to ensure the space for oral simulation material. A dimensional stability test was performed to validate the model. Results: The maximal mean displacement of the model was 0.015 mm, and the minimal mean displacement was 0.004 mm. The oral mucosa had a displacement of approximately 1.6 mm. Conclusions: An in vitro 3D simulation model of a complete edentulous patient mucosa was achieved. Full article

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a malignancy that affects the oral mucosa and is characterized by indurated oral lesions. The RNAseq of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples is readily available in clinical settings. Such samples have long-term preservation and can provide highly accurate transcriptomic information regarding gene fusions, isoforms, and allele-specific expression. We determined differentially expressed genes using the transcriptomic profiles of oral potentially malignant disorder (OPMD) FFPE oral lesion samples of patients who developed OSCC over years. A technical comparison was completed comparing breast cancer (BC) FFPE publicly available data in this proof-of-concept pilot study. OSCC FFPE samples were collected from patients (N = 3) who developed OSCC 3 to 5 years following OPMD diagnosis (n = 3) and were analyzed using RNAseq. RNAseq sequences from the FFPE OSCC samples and publicly available FFPE samples of BC patients (n = 6) (Gene Expression Omnibus Database, GSE58135) aligned to human reference (GRCh38.p13). Genes were counted using the Spliced Transcripts Alignment to a Reference (STARv2.7.9a) software. Differential expression was determined in R using DESeq2v1.40.2 comparing OSCC to BC samples. Principal component analysis (PCA) plots were completed. Differential Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were determined via the Pathviewv.1.40.0 program. STRING v12.0 was used to determine protein–protein interactions between genes represented in more than one KEGG pathway. STARv2.7.9a identified 27,237 and 30,343 genes among the OSCC and BC groups, respectively. DESeq2v1.40.2 determined 9194 differentially expressed genes (DEPs), 4466 being upregulated (OSCC > BC) and 4728 being downregulated (BC > OSCC) (padj < 0.05). Most significant genes included KRT6B, SERPINB5, and DSC3 (5- to 10-fold change range; padj < 10 × 10−100). PCA showed that BC and OSCC samples clustered as separate groups. Pathviewv.1.40.0 identified 17 downregulated KEGG pathways in OSCC compared to the BC group. No upregulated KEGG pathways were identified. STRINGv12.0 determined Gene Ontology Biological Process enrichments for leukocytes and apoptosis in upregulated KEGG genes including multiple PIK3 genes and NIK/NF-kappaB signaling and metabolic responses from lipopolysaccharides in downregulated KEGG genes including CHUK and NFKB1. Using FFPE samples, we determined DEPs characteristic of OSCC and distinct from BC. KRT-family genes and lipopolysaccharide producing periodontal pathogens may be further investigated for their involvement in the OPMD to OSCC transition. Full article

Cisplatin (CDDP) is an anticancer drug that is frequently used to treat head and neck cancers; however, it may cause oral mucositis. The discontinuation of CDDP may be required for some patients with a severe status, and the control of oral mucositis is extremely important. β-Cryptoxanthin (β-cry), a carotenoid, exerts anti-inflammatory effects. Its inhibition of 5-FU-induced inflammatory responses was recently demonstrated. However, the effects of β-cry on CDDP-induced oral mucositis remain unclear. In the present study, we stimulated human oral mucosa-derived keratinocytes (hOMK) and fibroblasts (hOMF) with CDDP, added β-cry, and examined its effects, with a focus on the production of inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs), and reactive oxygen species (ROS). CDDP increased the mRNA expression and production of inflammatory cytokines and MMPs both in hOMK and hOMF. However, increases in IL-6 and MMP-9 mRNA expression levels and IL-6 production in CDDP-treated hOMK and hOMF were inhibited by β-cry. Furthermore, the production of ROS and the rate of SA-β-gal-positive cells were increased by CDDP, but were not affected by β-cry. CDDP may induce oral mucositis by increasing the levels of inflammatory cytokines, MMPs, and ROS. β-cry partially inhibited CDDP-induced increases in inflammatory cytokines and MMPs, suggesting its potential to attenuate the symptoms of chemotherapy-related oral mucositis. Full article

The mechanisms that influence human longevity are complex and operate on cellular, tissue, and organismal levels. To better understand the tissue-level mechanisms, we compared the organization of cell proliferation, differentiation, and cytoprotective protein expression in the squamous epithelium of the esophagus between mammals with varying lifespans. Humans are the only species with a quiescent basal stem cell layer that is distinctly physically separated from parabasal transit-amplifying cells. In addition to these stark differences in the organization of proliferation, human squamous epithelial stem cells express DNA repair-related markers, such as MECP2 and XPC, which are absent or low in mouse basal cells. Furthermore, we investigated whether the transition from basal to suprabasal is different between species. In humans, the parabasal cells seem to originate from cells detaching from the basement membrane, and these can already begin to proliferate while delaminating. In most other species, delaminating cells have been rare or their proliferation rate is different from that of their human counterparts, indicating an alternative mode of how stem cells maintain the tissue. In humans, the combination of an elevated cytoprotective signature and novel tissue organization may enhance resistance to aging and prevent cancer. Our results point to enhanced cellular cytoprotection and a tissue architecture which separates stemness and proliferation. These are both potential factors contributing to the increased fitness of human squamous epithelia to support longevity by suppressing tumorigenesis. However, the organization of canine oral mucosa shows some similarities to that of human tissue and may provide a useful model to understand the relationship between tissue architecture, gene expression regulation, tumor suppression, and longevity. Full article

Papillomaviruses are double-stranded DNA viruses, and it is essential to clarify their genotypic distribution for their effective prevention and clinical management. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of HPV genotypes in the normal oral mucosae of HIV-positive individuals. A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify peer-reviewed studies published up to 13 February 2025. The inclusion criteria referred to original research studies reporting on the prevalence and genotype-specific distribution of HPV in the oral mucosae of HIV-positive individuals. Statistical analyses were conducted using the MedicReS E-PICOS AI smart biostatistics software (version 21.3, New York, NY, USA) and the MedCalc statistical software package (MedCalc Software Ltd., Ostend, Belgium). The pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using a random-effects meta-analysis model, and heterogeneity was quantified using the Cochrane Q and I² statistics. The presence of publication bias was assessed via the Begg and Mazumdar rank correlation test. High prevalence and heterogeneity of HPV-58 (6.23%), HPV-16 (4.326%), and HPV-66 (3.733%) were observed, indicating significant variability across populations and methodologies. This supports their association with HPV-related oropharyngeal malignancies and the need for the continuous surveillance of HIV-positive individuals. We also observed the elevated detection of LR-HPV genotypes, particularly HPV-13 (7.16%), HPV-5 (5.64%), and HPV-62 (4.24%). These findings indicate that there is substantial heterogeneity in the prevalence of both HR-HPV and LR-HPV genotypes among HIV-positive individuals, with certain genotypes exhibiting higher detection rates across studies, emphasizing the need for targeted surveillance and preventive strategies in this vulnerable population. The application of advanced data analysis methods is essential in enhancing HPV surveillance and implementing effective control measures in this vulnerable population. Full article

Oral fungal homeostasis is closely related to the state of human health, and its composition is influenced by various factors. At present, the effects of long-term soil heavy metal exposure on the oral fungi of local populations have not been adequately studied. In this study, we used inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to detect heavy metals in agricultural soils from two areas in Gansu Province, northwestern China. ITS amplicon sequencing was used to analyze the community composition of oral buccal mucosa fungi from local village residents. Simultaneously, the functional annotation of fungi was performed using FUNGuild, and co-occurrence networks were constructed to analyze the interactions of different functional fungi. The results showed that the species diversity of the oral fungi of local populations in the soil heavy metal exposure group was lower than that of the control population. The relative abundance of Apiotrichum and Cutaneotrichosporon was higher in the exposure group than in the control group. In addition, Cutaneotrichosporon is an Animal Pathogen, which may lead to an increased probability of disease in the exposure group. Meanwhile, there were significant differences in the co-occurrence network structure between the two groups. The control group had a larger and more stable network than the exposure group. Eight keystone taxa were observed in the network of the control group, while none were observed in that of the exposure group. In conclusion, heavy metal exposure may increase the risk of diseases associated with Apiotrichum and Cutaneotrichosporon infection in the local populations. It can also lead to the loss of keystone taxa and the reduced stability of the oral fungal network. The above results illustrated that heavy metal exposure impairs oral fungal interactions in the population. This study extends our understanding of the biodiversity of oral fungi in the population and provides new insights for further studies on the factors influencing oral fungal homeostasis. Full article

Background/Objectives: Isolated defects of the posterior hypopharyngeal/upper esophageal wall are rare, typically arising after cancer resection or complications following cervical spine osteosynthesis. Various local and free flaps are available for reconstruction, but we opted for a double-island anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap in this case. Methods: A scoping review was conducted (June 2024) following PRISMAScR 2018 guidelines in order to examine the coverage options available in the literature for posterior hypopharyngeal/upper esophagus wall defects while also presenting a case where such a defect was covered with a double-island anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap. Eligibility criteria: Human studies describing defect coverage of the posterior hypopharyngeal/upper esophagus wall were included. Sources of evidence: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, following PRISMAScR guidelines. Charting methods: Data on surgical techniques, outcomes, and complications were extracted and analyzed by two independent reviewers. Case report: A 57-year-old female developed a chronic posterior wall perforation following Zenker’s diverticulum treatment and C5/6 cage osteosynthesis. Reconstruction was performed using a free fasciocutaneous ALT flap with two skin paddles: one (2 × 2 cm) for the esophageal mucosa and an additional vascularized fascia layer (4 × 8 cm) to separate the cage from the hypopharyngeal defect. To enable flap monitoring in the otherwise hidden defect, a second skin island was externalized cervically. Results: Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with a continuous viable flap signal. A Gastrografin swallow test confirmed an intact esophagus without leaks or dehiscences. Oral intake resumed after 10 days. The literature review highlighted 239 cases with multiple reconstructive techniques, each with advantages and limitations. Conclusions: The double-paddle free fasciocutaneous ALT flap is a viable option for posterior hypopharyngeal/upper esophageal wall reconstruction, allowing effective postoperative monitoring. This approach offers a valuable modification for complex cases requiring enhanced structural integrity and flap assessment. Full article

Urethral reconstruction remains a challenge. Indeed, the use of oral mucosa, the reference biomaterial for urethroplasty, is associated with two main drawbacks: the limited availability of autologous tissues and potential short- and long-term complications, especially for patients with recurrences or severe anomalies. Therefore, the development of alternative approaches, such as urethral tissue engineering, is necessary. A new type of human urethral substitute devoid of exogenous biomaterials has been reconstructed in vitro. It presented sufficient mechanical strength and had histological and functional properties comparable to native tissues. These reconstructed tissues were implanted in vivo to repair hypospadias induced in tacrolimus-immunosuppressed rabbits via a two-stage urethroplasty. In the first stage, the distal part of the native urethra was removed, and a flat graft was implanted, leaving the urethra open proximally. Twelve weeks later, the graft was tubularized to create a neourethra, reproducing the usual clinical scenario. The results obtained for the experimental group were less effective than for the control group, with a success rate of 50% after excluding the animal affected by unwanted events unrelated to urethroplasty, and it is possible that the animal model or surgical technique used was not suitable and should be modified. Nevertheless, half of the urethral substitutes grafted on rabbits showed successful integration. These self-assembled artificial tissues represent promising substitutes for urethroplasty. Full article

Background: Canines play a vital functional and aesthetic role in human dentition, yet impacted canines, particularly in the mandible, are rare and can lead to functional disorders, such as the absence of canine guidance, while negatively affecting a patient’s self-esteem. Transmigration of mandibular canines adds complexity to treatment. One method to reduce the treatment time, especially for impacted teeth, is corticotomy-assisted orthodontic therapy (CAOT). Methods: A 13-year-old patient presented with a horizontally impacted lower right canine, positioned below the roots of the lower incisors, showing transmigration. A digitally designed and 3D-printed lingual appliance was attached to the lower molars with hooks on the lingual side, enabling the application of multi-directional orthodontic forces. CAOT was performed using an Er:YAG laser (LightWalker, Fotona, Ljubljana, Slovenia) at 200 mJ, 12 Hz, 2.4 W, with a pulse duration of 100 µs, and an MSP H14 conical tip (0.6 mm spot diameter). Photobiomodulation (PBM) with a 635 nm diode laser (Lasotronix, Smart ProM, Piaseczno, Poland) was applied at 10 J per point (20 J/cm²) for 100 s per point, with a total energy of 20 J per session to reduce the risk of root resorption, manage pain, and accelerate healing as the tooth was moved into the alveolar ridge. Results: The treatment duration was two and a half years. The lingual appliance with hooks allowed precise traction of the canine, aided by exposure from the lingual side and the attachment of a hook. Gentle forces applied via orthodontic thread gradually moved the canine beneath the oral mucosa. Mid-treatment cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans confirmed the absence of root resorption of the lower incisors. A corticotomy, enhanced by laser therapy, was performed before moving the canine into the alveolar ridge. The canine was successfully rotated 180° and positioned without any signs of resorption in the canine or adjacent teeth. Conclusions: The use of a digitally designed and 3D-printed lingual appliance with hooks allowed the precise control of the traction of impacted teeth. When combined with corticotomy and laser therapy, it minimised root resorption risks, reduced pain, accelerated healing, and improved the overall success of the orthodontic treatment. Full article