Drug-Induced Gingival Hyperplasia

Board Review

What is drug-induced gingival hyperplasia?

Gingival enlargement/overgrowth caused by certain medications.

What is another term for gingival hyperplasia?

Gingival overgrowth or gingival enlargement

Which anticonvulsant is the MOST commonly tested cause of gingival hyperplasia?

Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Which anticonvulsant medications can cause gingival hyperplasia?

Phenytoin (Dilantin), succinimides, and valporic acid

Which calcium channel blocker is classically associated with gingival hyperplasia?

Nifedipine (Procardia)

Which calcium channel blockers can cause gingival hyperplasia?

Nifedipine and verapamil

Which immunosuppresant commonly causes gingival hyperplasia?

Cyclosporine

What three drug classes should immediately make you think of gingival hyperplasia?

Anticonvulsants, calcium channel blockers, and immunosuppressants

A patient taking Dilantin presents with enlarged gingiva. What is likely the cause?

Drug-induced gingival hyperplasia

A transplant patient taking cyclosporine develops gingival enlargement. What is the cause?

Drug-induced gingival hyperplasia

What are the "Big 3" drugs that cause gingival hyperplasia?

Phenytoin, Nifedipine, Cyclosporine