Scanning Electron-Microscopy of Plaque in Papillon-Lefèvre Syndrome

Supra and subgingival plaque associated with periodontal lesions in patients with Papillon-Lefèvre syndrome were studied by examining extracted teeth and associated soft tissue by scanning electron and light microscopy. Four zones of plaque were described according to their location along the tooth surface. Supragingivally, cocci, filamentous bacilli and "corncob" formations were seen. Fusiform bacilli colonized the surface of supragingival plaque on the root surface. Subgingival sites, particularly apical areas, had numerous spirochetes adherent to the plaque surface as well as directly to the cementum surface. Microcolonies of bacteria, probably Mycoplasma, could be seen in the subgingival plaque. The findings of a potentially pathogenic plaque, attached subgingival spirochetes and microcolony formation may have important therapeutic and research implications.