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Vascular expansion in chronic periodontitis
1Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia.
Summary
Gingival blood vessels expand and remodel in advanced periodontal disease, potentially contributing to tissue destruction. This study quantifies vascular changes in human gingivitis and periodontitis.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Vascular Biology
- Oral Pathology
Background:
- Animal studies suggest gingival vascular changes during inflammation.
- Limited data exists on vascular responses in human gingivitis and periodontitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively assess vascular remodelling in human gingival tissues affected by varying degrees of inflammation.
- To correlate vascular changes with the progression of periodontal disease.
Main Methods:
- Gingival biopsies were collected from 51 patients with minimal inflammation, gingivitis, or periodontitis.
- Biopsies were analyzed quantitatively across five fields to assess vascular profiles and diameters.
- Vascular changes were examined in relation to bacterial plaque irritants and disease advancement.
Main Results:
- Increased number of vessel profiles observed adjacent to bacterial plaque in advanced periodontal lesions.
- Significant increase in blood vessel diameter throughout gingival biopsies with advancing periodontal disease.
- Evidence of considerable gingival vasculature remodelling in chronic periodontitis.
Conclusions:
- Chronic periodontitis involves substantial remodelling of the gingival vasculature.
- These vascular changes may play a role in the tissue destruction characteristic of periodontitis.