Detection of Streptococcus anginosus from saliva by real-time polymerase chain reaction
K Kumagai1, N Sugano, M Takane
1Department of Periodontology, Nihon University School of Dentistry, Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
Aims:
The purpose of the present investigation was to assess the salivary levels of Streptococcus anginosus in periodontitis patients.
Methods And Results:
The salivary levels of Strep. anginosus were assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Streptococcus anginosus was detected in 28 of 37 (75.6%) of periodontitis patients and in three of the 20 (15%) healthy subjects. The mean values for bleeding on probing and probing depth in positive patients were statistically higher than those in negative patients. A significant decrease in Strep. anginosus levels was observed after periodontal treatment.
Conclusions:
Although the levels of Strep. anginosus are extremely low, they may reflect the status of periodontal health.
Significance And Impact Of The Study:
Real-time PCR is a useful method for obtaining the relative quantities of Strep. anginosus from saliva samples and for monitoring the effect of therapy.
