Taste perceptiveness and density of taste papillae in patients with chronic diseases.

• Grant number: 10/06947-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: September 01, 2010
• End date: August 31, 2011
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Dental Clinics
• Principal Investigator: Norberto Nobuo Sugaya
• Grantee: Érica Fernanda Patricio da Silva
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia (FO). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Taste disturbances have different and multiple etiologies, manifesting commonly among patients with burning mouth syndrome (BMS), diabetes and chronic users of multiple drugs. FOUSP Stomatology Department deals with BMS patients developing research focused on clinical management and therapeutic approaches, which led to the elucidation of the dysgeusia symptoms that are common among these patients. Objectives: To determine the frequency and quality of taste changes in patients with SAB, compared with diabetic, hypertensive and healthy controls. Method: After agreement to the terms of an informed consent patients will be subjected to procedures for data collection (Annex A), assessment of blood pressure (BP), postprandial glucose, salivary flow and taste test. The PA will be measured through a proper digital device. Blood glucose will be evaluated using a portable device in the postprandial period. The unstimulated salivary flow will be measured by collecting saliva during 15 minutes with the aid of a millimeter beaker and funnel. The gustatory acuity test will be conducted by means of solutions of NaCl, Urea, Sucrose and Citric Acid. Additionally the density of fungiform papillae on the anterior third of tongue dorsum will be evaluated. Clinical conditions diagnosed will deserve proper consideration, consisting of clarification and guidance, additional studies, treatment or referral to other health specialists. The dysgeusia identified after analysis of the results could lead to other actions, depending on the associated systemic condition and characteristics of each patient. The data will be tabulated and statistically analyzed, within and between groups, concerning all the variables observed.