Amlodipine Related Gingival Overgrowth in a Patient With Asociated Autosomal Polycystic Kidney Disease

Abstract

Background. The paper describes the case of a 62 years non-smoking male patient who was referred to the Department of Periodontology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, complaining of gingival overgrowth. The patient’s medical history revealed that he suffers from autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease chronic renal failure and hypertension; the patient was under treatment with amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker for 18 months. Case presentation. The patient underwent cause-related periodontal therapy and flap surgery in areas where only partial resolution of the gingival overgrowth was obtained after completion of initial phase therapy; amlodipine was not substituted because of medical reasons. Results. We obtained complete resolution of the gingival enlargement, even without any change in the causative drug regimen; the patient was placed in a maintenance program, with regular appointments at 3 months; he successfully managed to maintain periodontal and oral health. Conclusions. If possible, all patients who are about to receive calcium channel blockers, should have a detailed periodontal assessment performed and if any periodontal disease discovered, treated properly. In case of established gingival overgrowth, non-surgical and/or surgical periodontal therapy could induce partial or complete remission of enlargement. Change of medication is also an option.