An unusual cause of bilateral mental neuropathy in an AIDS patient. Report of a case.
A case is reported of a patient with sudden onset, generalized toothache accompanied with a numb chin and lower lip. A thorough oral examination was negative. A complete medical evaluation revealed a positive HTLV-III antibody titer and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Burkitt's-type). An unexplained trigeminal neuropathy should prompt the dentist to refer the patient for complete medical evaluation. A high index of suspicion of a malignant process should be maintained in all cases of unexplained numb lower lip and/or chin.
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000150:complications; D000208:Acute Disease; D000328:Adult; D006801:Humans; D007945:Leukemia, Lymphoid / Q000150:complications; D008297:Male; D010292:Paresthesia / Q000209:etiology*; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D012677:Sensation; D014098:Toothache / Q000209:etiology*; D014276:Trigeminal Nerve