Prevalence of Oral Mucosal Lesions in patients with Diabetes Mellitus attending a Tertiary Health Center in Kathmandu

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is associated with several oral complications due to impaired tissue repair and altered immune responses. Oral mucosal lesions are common among diabetic patients, yet data on their prevalence in Nepal are limited. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and distribution of oral mucosal lesions in diabetic patients attending a tertiary health center in Kathmandu. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 221 diabetic patients attending the outpatient dental department of Nepal Medical College Teaching Hospital for a period of 19 months (April 2024-October 2025). Patients above 18 years with a known history of diabetes for at least six months were included. Extraoral and intraoral examinations were performed, and oral hygiene, gingival, and periodontal status were recorded. Data were analyzed using frequency statistics in SPSS v21. The mean age of participants was 54.88 ± 12.45 years, with a mean disease duration of 7.84 ± 5.84 years. Of the participants, 129 (58.4%) were female. The most commonly affected anatomical site was the buccal mucosa 135 (43.5%), followed by the dorsum of the tongue 78 (25.2%). The most prevalent oral lesions were melanin pigmentation 84 (27.1%), oral ulcers 48 (15.5%), and lingual varicosities 36 (11.6%). Other lesions included fissured tongue, coated tongue, hyperkeratosis, and linea alba. Oral mucosal lesions are common in diabetic patients, particularly affecting the buccal mucosa and tongue. Routine oral examinations in diabetic care may facilitate early detection and management of these lesions, contributing to improved oral and systemic health.