Oral manifestations in mpox: A report of two cases in Chile and a brief narrative review

Abstract

Oral manifestations caused by mpox are rarely reported but are crucial in the early diagnosis of this disease. Lesions in the oral mucosa may include macules, erosions, vesicles, pustules, and ulcers. We report two cases of mpox infection in males aged 25 and 30, both with history of HIV and syphilis. The pathognomonic oral lesions in both patients were ulcers in the lining mucosa, covered by fibrin with a corrugated appearance. In the first case, the oral lesions preceded the skin manifestations and the patient received outpatient management, while the second case required hospitalization due to complications of HIV infection. Oral manifestations of mpox can appear prior to skin lesions, so early diagnosis could help reduce the risk of transmission.