Assessment of oral health status of patients on program for solid organ transplant

Abstract

Patients with chronic diseases scheduled for solid organ transplantation have systemic conditions that compromise their immune system that predisposes to a potential risk for infection, which should be prevented for the post-transplantation period, especially with the use of immunosuppressant. Infectious foci in the oral cavity after transplantation are a concern under such condition, requiring special attention. Purpose: To evaluate data related to the oral health condition of patients in a schedule for solid organ transplantation; this article emphasizes the importance of dental care ahead of the transplantation. Methods: This is a quantitative, descriptive, exploratory and retrospective study. It was analyzed 225 records of patients in liver, kidney and heart transplant schedule, the data related to oral conditions and possible infectious risks (cavities, periodontal disease, and infectious lesions on the mucosa membrane) attained upon the assessment of odontologic reports. Statistical methods were used to the analysis of significance by the chi-square and Fisher exact test with significance (p <0.05). Results: It was reported the presence of oral changes showing Infectious foci in (134/166) 80.72% of patients in liver transplant program, (35/43) 81.39% in renal transplant program, and (13/16) 81 25% in heart transplant. Conclusion: Data showed that patients in patients in an organ transplant schedule, the incidence of oral Infectious foci is significant, suggesting that oral treatment ahead to the transplantation is important because of the immunosuppressant condition of patients in transplantation programs.