β THALASSEMIC PATIENTS;

GINGIVAL STATUS OF β THALASSEMIC PATIENTS IN POPULATION OF KARACHI PAKISTAN.

Abstract

Introduction Thalassemia is a worldwide disease. 5-8% of Pakistani population (approx. 8 –10 millions) are carrying thalassemia genes. It causes various abnormalities indifferent organs of patients. In Pakistan (to the best of our knowledge) no research work on oral and maxillofacial manifestation had been carried out, therefore present study wasunder taken. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency ofgingival status Thalassemic patients and correlate with age. Study Design: Cross Sectional, Observational, Non Therapeutic Setting: AbbasiShaheed Hospital Karachi with collaboration of Husaini Institute of Blood Diseases Karachi, Fatimid Foundation and National institute of Oral Diseases Karachi Pakistan.Period: 2 years June 2013 to June 2015.Methods and Materials: 200 diagnosedβ– thalassemia major patients, were randomly selected form the Patients who were registered for their treatment .Their clinical examination and percentage of recorded feature were calculated and cross tabulated with age and GI Index were used for evaluation of Gingivitis and result were deduced.Results:The most prominent features recorded were gingivitis in 83.5normal patients were 16.5, Mild Gingivitis 39% %; Moderate Gingivitis 37 %; Severe Gingivitis in 7.5%.Conclusion: The increase in severity of Gingivitis increases with age and duration, necessitate regular surveillance and counselling in order to reassure the patient,reduce ginigivitis in thalassemia patients and improve the overall condition and life style of Patients.