Xeroderma pigmentosum: Case report

Abstract

Aim Xeroderma pigmentosum, which is commonly known as XP, is an inherited condition characterized by an extreme sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight. This condition mostly affects the eyes and areas of skin exposed to the sun. Some affected individuals also have problems involving the nervous system. In affected individuals, exposure to sunlight often causes dry skin (xeroderma) and changes in skin coloring (pigmentation). The aim of this report is to present a case of xeroderma pigmentosum in a female patient. Case Report A 33-year-old female patient was referred to Marmara University, Faculty of Dentistry Oral Diagnosis Clinic. A 33-year-old female patient was admitted to Marmara University Faculty of Dentistry Oral Diagnosis Clinic with the complaint of pain. All systemic findings of the syndrome were observed. In the intraoral examination, no findings were found in the oral mucosa. Discussion People with xeroderma pigmentosum have a greatly increased risk of developing skin cancer. Without sun protection, about half of children with this condition develop their first skin cancer by age 10. Most people with xeroderma pigmentosum develop multiple skin cancers during their lifetime. These cancers occur most often on the face, lips, and eyelids. Cancer can also develop on the scalp, in the eyes, and on the tip of the tongue. Conclusion Patients should be kept under control because of squamous cell carcinoma that can be observed in the oral mucosa.