Salivary gland function in persons with ectodermal dysplasias

Ectodermal dysplasias (EDs) constitute a group of conditions comprising developmental defects in two or more of the following tissues: hair, teeth, nails, and sweat glands. The aim of the present study was to contribute to a better understanding of salivary gland involvement in EDs. An ED group (n=39, median age 12 yr; 24 males, 15 females) and a healthy age- and sex-matched control group were studied. Citric acid stimulated submandibular and parotid salivary flow rates and salivary concentrations, and output of total protein, acidic proline-rich proteins and histatins were analysed. The associations between quantitative and qualitative salivary parameters were also studied. In the ED group, 13 persons (33%) demonstrated a significantly reduced secretion of submandibular and/or parotid saliva, in addition to a low unstimulated and/or chewing-stimulated whole salivary flow. In the ED group as a whole, a reduced median secretory rate of submandibular saliva was found, whereas the median concentrations of some protein parameters were increased. However, the overall output of proteins was normal or reduced. Submandibular glands seemed to be more affected than parotid glands in EDs. In conclusion, salivary secretory tests are recommended in persons with known or suspected EDs.