Progressive laser treatment of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia of the gingiva: case report.

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is an inherited vascular malformation commonly found in the oral region. The symptoms range from minor epistaxis to severe, life-threatening hemorrhage. Red spots on the skin and in the mouth could lead to a diagnosis of HHT. The telangiectases can be irritated by normal dental procedures, and prophylactic antibiotics should be administered. The gingival HHT in this case demonstrates its significance to the dental community. A knowledgeable practitioner could be the first to recognize the potential diagnosis of HHT. Lesion variables will determine treatment parameters. Sequential photocoagulation with an argon laser appears to be an appropriate treatment algorithm.