Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

Which immunosuppressant drug is commonly used in transplant patients and is known to cause gingival hyperplasia?

1. Azathioprine

2. Cyclosporine

3. Mycophenolate mofetil

4. Tacrolimus

The correct answer is: Cyclosporine

The immunosuppressant drug that is commonly used in transplant patients and is known to cause gingival hyperplasia is Cyclosporine. This medication is frequently prescribed to prevent organ rejection in transplant recipients due to its ability to inhibit T-cell activation, thereby suppressing the immune response. Gingival hyperplasia is a condition characterized by an overgrowth of the gum tissue, which can occur as a side effect of Cyclosporine. The exact mechanism by which Cyclosporine induces gingival hyperplasia is not entirely understood but is thought to involve changes in fibroblast activity and inflammatory responses in the gingival tissue. This side effect necessitates careful dental monitoring and hygiene practices for patients on this medication to prevent complications such as periodontal disease. While other immunosuppressants listed may also have side effects, they are not specifically associated with gingival hyperplasia in the same way as Cyclosporine. Azathioprine and Mycophenolate mofetil do not typically cause this specific change in the oral cavity, and Tacrolimus has a different side effect profile. Thus, identifying Cyclosporine as the correct answer is important for understanding the potential oral health implications in transplant patients.