Linear gingival erythema

Linear gingival erythema (LGE) is a periodontal disorder diagnosed based on distinct clinical characteristics. It was originally thought that LGE was directly associated with HIV, and it was thus called HIV-associated gingivitis (HIV-G). Later research confirmed that LGE also occurs in HIV negative immunocompromised patients, and it was thus renamed.^[1]

Presentation

LGE is limited to the soft tissue of the periodontium, appearing as a red line 2–3 mm in width adjacent to the free gingival margin. Unlike conventional periodontal disease, though, LGE is not significantly associated with increased levels of dental plaque.^[1]

The prevalence of LGE remains unclear^[2] and there is no known treatment.

References

1. Oral Health Care for People with HIV Infection. 2001: AIDS Institute, NY Department of Health, page 31-32.
2. Swango P, Kleinman DV, Konzelman JL. "HIV and periodontal health: a study of military personnel with HIV." J Am Dent Assoc 1991;122:49-52.