End to End: GI Tract Pathologies and their Oral Manifestations
Saturday, April 13
2 - 3:30 PM
1.5 CDE Credits – DDS, DH, DA
ABOUT THE COURSE
The gastrointestinal tract is one continuous tube originating with the oral cavity and terminating at the anus; therefore, it is logical that many conditions affecting the GI tract may have oral manifestations. This course will encompass a journey through the tract, beginning in the esophagus, examining gastroesophageal reflux disorder and its effects on the oral cavity. The final stops will be in the intestines with a synopsis of the inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis) and hereditary intestinal polyposis (Peutz Jegher’s syndrome). Cases from Ms. Lukes’ personal image collection will be presented with a lively discussion encouraging audience participation. Comparison images for inclusion in differential diagnoses will also be presented, urging dental professionals to utilize all patient information when analyzing lesions. Interdisciplinary and treatment strategies with be discussed for clinical practice applications.
Upon completion of the course the participant will:
- Discuss the importance of current oral/systemic pathology knowledge when conducting intra/extra-oral exams
- Explain the etiology, clinical appearance and treatment options of gastroesophageal reflux disorder, inflammatory bowel disease and hereditary intestinal polyposis
- Identify oral lesions as manifestations of systemic GI conditions
- Discuss interdisciplinary collaboration for follow up care for patients presenting with oral signs of systemic disease
PRESENTER
Sherri Lukes, R.D.H., M.S., FAADH
Speaker, author, and vulnerable populations advocate, Sherri Lukes has been a dental hygienist for 43 years, holding advanced degrees in education. She is associate professor emerita, Southern Illinois University, where she taught general and oral pathology, public health, and multicultural dental hygiene. Her research focus was oral pathology and migrant farmworker oral health, resulting in multiple peer reviewed publications. Sherri enjoys integrating her years of experience into CE courses to empower dental professionals in the process of care. She is an approved speaker of and holds a pathology fellowship in the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, is a past president of the Illinois Dental Hygienists’ Association, and a member of the American Academy of Oral Medicine. Community service includes biannual trips to central/southern Mexico, delivering preventive care in an orphanage and remote villages. Honors include Community Service, Research, and Teacher of the Year awards at SIU, Illinois Department of Public Health Oral Health Champion, the Sunstar/RDH Award of Distinction and 2024 Western Society of Perio DH speaker of the year.
