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A Murine Model of Fetal Exposure to Maternal Inflammation to Study the Effects of Acute Chorioamnionitis on Newborn Intestinal Development
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Maternal chronic infection as a risk factor in preterm low birth weight infants: the link with periodontal infection

Andrés R Sánchez1, Leo I Kupp, Phillip J Sheridan

  • 1Division of Periodontics, Department of Dental Specialties, Mayo Clinic W4A, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. dr_a_sanchez@hotmail.com

Journal of the International Academy of Periodontology
|September 17, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Periodontal disease may increase the risk of preterm low birthweight (PLBW) infants. Further research is needed to confirm fetal exposure to periodontal pathogens and effective treatments for reducing PLBW risk.

Area of Science:

  • Periodontology
  • Obstetrics
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Periodontal disease is increasingly recognized as a potential risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes.
  • Preterm low birthweight (PLBW) infants represent a significant public health concern.
  • Chronic infections, including periodontal infections, are being investigated for their role in pregnancy complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the scientific evidence linking periodontal infections with adverse pregnancy outcomes, specifically preterm low birthweight (PLBW).
  • To summarize epidemiological studies on the relationship between PLBW and infection.
  • To identify areas for future research regarding periodontal disease and PLBW.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific evidence and epidemiological studies.
  • Focus on the definition, incidence, and risk factors of PLBW.
  • Analysis of the link between chronic infections and PLBW, with a specific emphasis on periodontal infections.

Main Results:

  • Limited available data support the hypothesis that periodontal disease is a risk factor for PLBW infants.
  • Current evidence suggests a potential association between periodontal infections and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Periodontal disease may contribute to the risk of preterm low birthweight infants.
  • Further research is required to confirm fetal exposure to periodontal pathogens, understand placental transfer mechanisms, and evaluate periodontal treatment efficacy in reducing PLBW risk.

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