TRIAD OF PEDIATRIC OROFACIAL GRANULOMATOSIS, CROHN’S DISEASE AND INFLIXIMAB – A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Main Article Content

Dr. V. Vasanthakumar

Keywords

Orofacial granulomatosis, Inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, infliximab, hypersensitivity, inflammatory disorders

Abstract

Background: Crohn's disease (CD), a kind of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is a systemic illness that often affects extraintestinal organs in addition to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Up to 24% of IBD patients experience extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) prior to the development of intestinal symptoms, which can have a significant impact on their quality of life. The rare disorder known as orofacial granulomatosis (OFG) is characterized by the histologic finding of noncaseating granulomas in the oral mucosa and face on tissue biopsy, leading to chronic swelling. Less than 1% of CD patients have OFG, and biopsy is the most reliable way to make the diagnosis.  While some view OFG as a separate condition without a systemic granulomatous disorder, others see it as a more comprehensive diagnosis that includes isolated OFG as well as a potential sign of sarcoidosis or CD. OFG frequently has a chronic and deforming course, which makes it very challenging to treat and eventually lowers the quality of life for those who are afflicted. In oral medicine, they are used to treat a number of ailments. For the treatment of complicated oral disorders such as Sjogren's disease, pemphigus vulgaris, and mucous membrane pemphigoid, biologics are increasingly advised. TNF-α inhibitors, such as adalimumab and infliximab, have also been shown to be effective in treating orofacial granulomatosis (OFG) and oral Crohn's disease. Six Nevertheless, little is known about how these substances affect the oral cavity and dental care.


Material and Methods: Major databases such as Medline were explored detailed literature search in resulting in a systematic review pertaining to Effective treatment of pediatric orofacial granulomatosis secondary to Crohn’s disease with infliximab.


Results: Five original research scientific articles dated between 2020 – 2024 pertaining to mentioned topic were highlighted.


Conclusions: As a crucial early marker of underlying Crohn's disease, pediatric orofacial granulomatosis (OFG) requires extensive biopsies, ongoing surveillance, and interdisciplinary cooperation. Biologic therapy using infliximab provides a very effective way to alleviate symptoms and stop long-term structural orofacial damage in extreme situations. By identifying oral symptoms, keeping an eye on patients taking biologics, and working closely with medical specialists to guarantee thorough patient management, dental professionals play a critical role in this care network. Detailed information regarding the Effective treatment of pediatric orofacial granulomatosis secondary to Crohn’s disease with infliximab is discussed in this systematic review.

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