Oral hairy leukoplakia as immune marker: cytological study in transplant patients

Abstract

Objective: To relate the degree of immunosuppression in kidney-transplanted patients or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy with the diagnosis of Oral Hairy Leukoplakia. Methods: A total of 46 patients were divided into three groups: kidney transplant recipients (G1), patients on hemodialysis (G2), and healthy individuals (G3). Samples were collected from both sides of the tongue using a sterile endocervical brush. Two smears were prepared on conventional glass slides, fixed in 96° alcohol, and stained using the Papanicolaou technique. The slides were then examined for nuclear changes indicative of the cytopathic effect of the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). Results: EBV was detected in 70% of patients in G1, 40% in G2, and 0% in G3. Conclusion: Subclinical Oral Hairy Leukoplakia was more prevalent in kidney-transplanted patients compared to those not receiving immunosuppressive therapy. This suggests that the diagnosis may serve as a potential marker of immune compromise.