Chloroxylenol a new allergen to dentistry

Abstract

Plasma cell gingivitis is an infrequent benign inflammatory condition of unknown etiology. As the name suggests, it shows diffuse and substantial infiltration of plasma cells into subepithelial connective tissue. The cause for plasma cell gingivitis is not known, but authors have suggested that it might be due to some immunological reaction to allergens which may be present in toothpaste, chewing gum, mint pastels and certain foods. Here we present a case report of 47 year-old female with generalised gingival enlargement associated with the use of chloroxylenol as mouthwash diluted with water and also applied topically in the affected areas. Histopathology report demonstrated psoriasiform hyperplasia and spongiosis of surface epithelium, with neutrophilic micro abscess formation. The underlying lamina propria contained dilated vascular channels, and extremely dense chronic inflammatory infiltrate predominantly of plasma cells. There was a significant improvement in gingival condition after discontinuation of chloroxylenol and scaling and root planing