Oral manifestations and salivary flow rate, pH, and buffer capacity in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis

Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate oral manifestations and salivary changes in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemod ialysis. Study design. Eighty-two patients undergoing hemodialysis for renal insuffi ciency were examined; 22 of these patients were randomly selected far saliv ary tests. Unstimulated whole saliva and stimulated parotid saliva were col lected, and now rate, pH, and buffer capacity were examined. Twenty-two hea lthy volunteers were included as controls. Results. Uremic odor, dry mouth, and taste change were common symptoms. Pet echia and/or ecchymosis and increase of tongue coating were major signs. Th e flow rates of unstimulated whole and stimulated parotid saliva were decre ased in the patient group. The pH and buffer capacity of unstimulated whole saliva were increased in the patient group, but stimulated Parotid saliva did not show any significant differences. Conclusions. Patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis showed apparent oral and salivary changes. The results help us understand t he relationship between oral changes and renal insufficiency.