12. Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
Bleeding from the gums is also commonly observed in patients with HIV. Often, the patient is suffering from necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis. This condition, which is an inflammatory gingival infection, is rapidly destructive and possesses a complex etiology.
Clinically it is characterized by necrotic ulcers of the interdental papilla, profuse and spontaneous bleeding and significant pain and discomfort. Patients suffering from necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis typically develop severe halitosis and lymphadenopathy.
Necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis can be a precursor to periodontitis; therefore, the prevention and treatment of high-risk individuals, such as people infected with HIV, can prevent the destruction of periodontal tissue.
