Case report of gingivitis artefacta (Self-injurious behavior)

Abstract

This case report discusses gingivitis artefacta, an oral presentation of self-injurious behavior (SIB), in a 26-year-old male who also presented with excoriations on the chest, abdomen and back (dermatillomania) along with well-circumscribed areas of hair loss on the scalp (trichotillomania). Gingivitis artefacta is a type of periodontal disease caused by self-inflicted injuries to the gingival tissues. The injuries, most commonly, occur due to picking or scratching of the gingiva with fingernails or any foreign object. SIB is a complex disorder. The cause of his behavior appeared to be of psychological origin, and therefore, referral to the Department of Psychiatry was made. Gingivitis artefacta is rarely seen and practitioners need to be aware of such presentations in patients.

Keywords

• Dermatillomania
• excoriations
• gingivitis artefacta
• self-injurious behavior
• trichotillomania