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Gingivitis/Stomatitis/Pharyngitis Lymphocytic-plasmacytic gingivitis is a common disease causing inflammation, ulceration, and proliferation of the soft tissues of the mouth. Middle-aged cats are usually affected. The area of the mouth most commonly affected is the back of the mouth around the entrance to the pharynx. The gums, pharynx, soft palate, lips, and tongue are also commonly affected. The cause is unknown but is felt to be multifactoral with an immune-mediated component, possibly representing a hypersensitivity to oral bacterial antigens. However, it is unlikely that bacterial infection is the primary cause, as antibiotic therapy does not eliminate the disease and immunomodulating therapy is often helpful in improving lesions. Dental disease is also a likely contributing factor. Clinical signs vary depending on the severity of the lesions. Cats may demonstrate no clinical signs; the disease is noted incidentally at the time of physical examination. Clinical abnormalities present may include drooling saliva, bad breath, pain on opening of the mouth, difficulty eating food, change in food preference from a dry to a soft diet, inappetance, and weight loss. Diagnosis can be achieved by biopsy of the affected tissue. Affected cats should be tested for FeLV and FIV infection Treatment involves good dental care since periodontal disease can be a major contributing factor. Antibiotics to clear or prevent secondary bacterial infection and potent antiflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids Cats with this problem will rarely achieve total resolution of the lesions. Response to therapy is poor, and relapses are common. The goal of therapy should be the best possible control of clinical signs. |
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