CORRELATION OF ORAL LESIONS WITH SYSTEMIC DISORDERS: A CLINICAL AND RADIOGRAPHIC STUDY

Background: Oral lesions frequently serve as sentinel indicators of systemic diseases. Their recognition offers
a valuable opportunity for early diagnosis and multidisciplinary intervention. Despite this potential, the clinical
and radiographic correlation of oral lesions with systemic conditions remains underexplored in integrated
healthcare.
Objectives: To clinically evaluate oral lesions in adult patients, assess the supportive role of radiographic
imaging, and identify statistically significant correlations between specific oral lesion types and underlying
systemic disorders.
Methods: A prospective, observational study was conducted over 12 months involving 150 adult patients with
oral lesions. Clinical examinations were performed by calibrated specialists, and lesions were morphologically
classified. Radiographic evaluations included digital orthopantomograms, intraoral periapical radiographs, and
CBCT in selected cases. Systemic diagnoses were confirmed through laboratory investigations and medical
consultation. Chi-square test was applied to analyze associations.
Results: Candidiasis, lichenoid reactions, and petechiae were the most frequent lesions. Systemic conditions
most commonly identified included diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hematological disorders. Radiographic
findings such as alveolar bone loss and maxillary sinus opacification supported systemic correlation. Significant
associations were established between candidiasis and diabetes mellitus (p = 0.003), petechiae and hematologic
disorders (p = 0.012), and lichenoid lesions with hypertension (p = 0.016). Radiographic findings supported
systemic diagnosis in 41% of participants.
Conclusion: Oral lesions can reflect underlying systemic pathology. Integration of clinical and radiographic
assessment enhances diagnostic accuracy. Early identification and referral are crucial for improving patient
outcomes. Training oral healthcare providers to recognize these correlations strengthens their role in systemic
disease surveillance.