Strawberry gingivitis - A diagnostic feature of gingival Wegener's granulomatosis

Wegener's granulomatosis is an immunologically mediated inflammatory disease characterized by granulomatous vasculitis of the upper and lower aero-digestive tracts together with glomerulonephritis. We are reporting a rare case of gingival Wegener's granulomatosis which presented with erythematous and painful generalized gingival enlargement. Co- relation of histopathology with routine H and E and special stains (Grocott Gomori methenamine silver nitrate and PAS), Mantoux test, peripheral blood smear and clinical presentation were established in diagnosing this rare entity. By the above mentioned procedures and methodology we have arrived at the diagnosis of Wegner's granulomatosis limited to upper aero-digestive tract. So aim of reporting this case to emphasize that the dental surgeon often being the first person to examine the oral cavity, should be familiar with the typical appearance of gingival Wegener's granulomatosis as "strawberry gingivitis", its clinical course as well as diagnostic parameters and adequate management. Best of our knowledge it is first reported case of Wegener's granulomatosis manifesting as "strawberry gingivitis" in Indian population.