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Published on: November 16, 2016
Oral colonization of Gram-negative anaerobes as a risk factor for preterm delivery
1Oral Microbiology Group, Department of Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa. cafrica@uwc.ac.za
Background:
Preterm birth significantly impacts on neonatal morbidity and mortality and is apparently increasing world-wide. Several studies have attempted to define a causative role for periodontal disease in adverse pregnancy outcomes but few have focused on the microbiology of periodontal disease in relation to these outcomes.
Results:
The evidence for a positive correlation is strong, supported by microbiological and immunological findings. Conflicting results are often associated with uncontrolled confounding factors.
Materials And Methods:
A literature search was conducted in order to establish whether or not a role exists for oral Gram-negative bacteria in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Association and intervention studies are summarized along with pathogenic potential of the Gram-negative bacteria most frequently implicated in periodontal disease.
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