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Placental colonization with periodontal pathogens: the potential missing link
Lori A Fischer1, Ellen Demerath2, Peter Bittner-Eddy1
1Division of Periodontology, Department of Developmental and Surgical Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|May 4, 2019
Summary
Severe periodontitis increases risks for adverse pregnancy outcomes. Periodontal pathogens in placental tissue, not just their presence, may link periodontitis to poor birth outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive health
- Microbiology
- Periodontology
Background:
- Severe periodontitis is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes like preterm birth and low birthweight.
- Standard periodontal treatment during pregnancy has not reduced these risks.
- Periodontal pathogens may spread to the placenta, impacting fetal development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of periodontal pathogens in the placenta as a link to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- To evaluate the significance of pathogen quantity and prevalence over mere presence.
Main Methods:
- Review of observational studies and sequencing data.
- Analysis of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and histology findings in human placental tissue.
- Comparison of DNA-based sequencing with other methods for microbiome assessment.
Main Results:
- Oral microbiome organisms have been detected in placental tissue.
- Periodontal pathogens have been identified in placental tissue associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- The amount and prevalence of pathogens are more critical than their mere presence.
Conclusions:
- Both oral and placental microbiomes may contribute to periodontitis-associated adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Placental colonization by periodontal pathogens could be the missing link.
- Further research should focus on pathogen load and prevalence for a clearer association.
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