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Papillon-Lefèvre Syndrome: Symptoms, Oral Manifestations & Key Features Explained

Dentstudy Editorial Team1 min read Updated 14 Aug 2026
Papillon-Lefèvre Syndrome: Symptoms, Oral Manifestations & Key Features Explained

⚡ High-Yield Summary

Papillon-Lefèvre Syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by juvenile periodontitis, palmar–plantar hyperkeratosis, gingival inflammation, and early tooth loss. Learn its features, oral findings, and clinical relevance for NEET MDS, BDS, MBBS, and INBDE.

🔎 What Is Papillon-Lefèvre Syndrome?

Papillon-Lefèvre Syndrome (PLS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder involving both skin and periodontal tissues.
It typically appears in childhood and is strongly associated with:

  • Severe early-onset periodontitis

  • Palmar–plantar hyperkeratosis

  • Early exfoliation of both primary and permanent teeth

The condition is linked to mutations in the Cathepsin C (CTSC) gene, which affects immune response and epithelial integrity.

📌 Key Oral Manifestations (High-Yield for Exams)

Papillon-Lefèvre Syndrome presents with dramatic dental changes early in life:

✔ Juvenile Periodontitis

Aggressive, rapidly progressing periodontal destruction involving both dentitions.

✔ Gingival Ulcers & Inflammation

Severe gingival swelling, redness, and bleeding.

✔ Gingival Enlargement & Pocket Formation

Deep periodontal pockets appear early → mobility → tooth loss.

✔ Early Tooth Exfoliation

Primary teeth may exfoliate by age 4–5, permanent teeth soon after eruption.

These features make PLS a must-know topic in Oral Pathology & Periodontology.

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