Highlights
The inclusion of dentists in multidisciplinary teams for patients with neurocutaneous syndromes is essential, both on an outpatient and hospital basis.
Interestingly, dentistry can play a relevant role in the early diagnosis and differential diagnosis of patients with neurocutaneous syndromes.
More research in this area is needed.
Abstract
Neurocutaneous syndromes comprise a heterogeneous group of congenital or hereditary conditions that are known to be associated with the risk of different disorders and complications. Two of the most common neurocutaneous syndromes are Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC). Although there appears to be a general consensus on the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing these cases, there is still very little emphasis in discussions addressed in the literature on the role of dentistry in accordance with the perspective of comprehensive care. Evidence-based propositions, together with a broad discussion of new insights in this regard, should have the ability to strongly impact related future perspectives, aiming for greater advances and better outcomes for these patients. In this review article, the authors discuss updated general aspects of NF1 and TSC, and the potential additional roles of dentistry, in addition to addressing suggestions for actions in dentistry at related levels of care, as well as priorities for future research.
Keywords
Dentistry; Neurocutaneous syndromes; Patient care team; Delivery of health care; Comprehensive health care