| Autor: |
Kouri M; Department of Oral Medicine & Pathology and Hospital Dentistry, School of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece., Adamo D; Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy., Vardas E; Department of Oral Medicine & Pathology and Hospital Dentistry, School of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece., Georgaki M; Department of Oral Medicine & Pathology and Hospital Dentistry, School of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece., Canfora F; Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy., Mignogna MD; Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy., Nikitakis N; Department of Oral Medicine & Pathology and Hospital Dentistry, School of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772 Athens, Greece. |
| Abstrakt: |
Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a chronic idiopathic orofacial pain disorder, characterized by persistent burning sensations and pain without clear pathological causes. Recent research suggests that small fiber neuropathy (SFN) may play a significant role in the neuropathic pain and sensory disturbances associated with BMS. Following PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review aims to evaluate and synthesize current evidence supporting SFN's involvement in BMS. The protocol is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024555839). The results show eight studies reported reductions in nerve fiber density in tongue biopsies (ranging from 30% to 60%), along with morphological changes indicative of small fiber damage. Additionally, an increase in TRPV1-positive, NGF-positive, and P2X3-positive fibers, overexpression of Nav1.7, and slight underexpression of Nav1.9 mRNA were observed in BMS patients. Quantitative Sensory Testing in seven studies revealed sensory abnormalities such as reduced cool detection and cold pain thresholds. Blink reflex and corneal confocal microscopy also indicated peripheral and central small fiber damage, along with increased artemin mRNA expression. The evidence strongly supports SFN as a key factor in the pathophysiology of BMS, particularly due to reductions in nerve fiber density and altered sensory thresholds. However, variability across studies highlights the need for larger, standardized research to establish causal relationships and guide therapeutic strategies. |
