Background: Unsightly gingival overgrowth affects many individuals immunosu
ppressed with cyclosporin A (CsA), Current management involves repeated per
iodontal surgery and intensive hygienist support. Tacrolimus is an effectiv
e alternative immunosuppressive agent for renal transplantation which does
not appear to produce gingival enlargement.
Aims: The purpose of the present study was to monitor the gingival response
of 4 renal transplant patients (RTPs), with clinically significant CsA-ind
uced,gingival overgrowth, after their immunosuppressive therapy was switche
d to tacrolimus.
Methods: Intra-oral photographs and alginate impressions were taken both pr
ior to the drug conversion and again, 6 to 9 months later. Gingival overgro
wth scores were determined, from plaster models on both these occasions.
Results: All of the RTPs experienced significant resolution of their gingiv
al enlargement within the time period studied: however, only one had comple
te regression,
Conclusion: It is concluded that conversion of RTPs with gingival overgrowt
h from CsA to tacrolimus may provide an effective management strategy for t
his clinical problem.