[Oral manifestations in HIV infection].

In this review article, oral lesions in relation to HIV infection are presented and discussed. Lesions such as oral candidiasis, hairy leukoplakia and necrotising gingivitis or periodontitis may be the first sign of an HIV infection or of its progression. Almost all HIV-infected patients will contract oral diseases. Dentists and physicians play an essential role in early recognition of signs and symptoms of HIV disease or of its progression. Only through such recognition can appropriate definitive diagnostic testing be conducted and appropriate therapeutic intervention for the condition be considered. It is pivotal that both dentists and physicians are familiar with the most frequently occurring oral symptoms of HIV infection.