Dyskeratosis congenita. Report of a case with literature review

Abstract

Leukoplakic lesion is not uncommon in clinical practice but its occurrence as a component of a syndrome is rare. Dyskeratosis congenita is a rare genodermatosis, which is characterized by triad of skin pigmentation, nail dystrophy and leukoplakic lesion in the oral cavity. It is important for dentists to now about Dyskeratosis Congenita because these leukoplakic lesions can spontaneously undergo malignant transformation. Majority of cases have been reported in dermatology or pediatrics literature whereas only few reports have appeared in dental literature. The purpose of reporting this case with review of recent literature is to create better awareness among dentists about the multisystem manifestations and oro-dental abnormalities of this fatal condition that can aid clinicians in early diagnosis. A case of 26 year old male is reported with details of differential diagnosis, importance of hematological investigations, periodic biopsies and current concepts in management of such patients are briefly reviewed.