Oral Pigmented Lesions: Classification and a Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Pigmentations are commonly found in the mouth. They distinguish in several clinical patterns that can range from physiologic pigmentation to oral manifestations of systemic diseases and malignancies. A variety of pigmentations can be in the form of blue/purple vascular lesions, brown melanotic lesions, brown heme associated lesions, gray/black pigmentations. We must assess several parameters associated with pigmented lesions such as location, shape, color, size and conduct a thorough medical history with relevant physical examination to identify possible adrenal, gastrointestinal or genetic disorders that are usually associated with these types of lesions. If a patient with systemic disorder is suspected then it is promptly referred to the appropriate healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Materials and Methodology: Scientific databases were searched for the literature and relevant articles were selected or the review. Conclusion: Multidisciplinary care is often essential to effectively manage patients with these conditions. Since the dentist come across a number of pigmented lesions in the oral cavity, it is important to have a widespread knowledge about pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, possibility of malignant transformations and their management. In this review, various pigmentations of the oral cavity are discussed.