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Bacteriologic findings in tonsillitis and pericoronitis
A Rajasuo1, H Jousimies-Somer, S Savolainen
1Valkeala Military Hospital, Finnish Defence Forces, Finland.
Summary
Partially erupted lower third molars significantly increase anaerobic bacteria on tonsils. Many bacterial species can be found in both tonsils and third molar pockets, indicating a potential link.
Area of Science:
- Oral Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- The oral cavity harbors a complex microbial ecosystem.
- Understanding bacterial interactions between different oral sites is crucial for diagnosing and treating infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the quantitative bacteriologic differences between tonsil and pericoronal pocket samples.
- To determine the impact of partially erupted lower third molars on tonsillar bacterial flora.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative aerobic and anaerobic cultures were performed on tonsil, pericoronal pocket, and extraction socket specimens from 31 young men.
- Bacterial isolates were identified and quantified.
Main Results:
- Anaerobes were more prevalent in infected third molars than in infected tonsils (14.5 vs. 8.4 isolates; P < .001).
- Infected tonsils with adjacent partially erupted third molars showed significantly more anaerobic species (10.3 vs. 6.9 isolates; P < .05).
- Specific bacteria like Eubacterium aerofaciens, Clostridium, Peptostreptococcus micros, and Prevotella oris were frequently isolated.
Conclusions:
- Partial eruption of lower third molars increases the anaerobic bacterial load on tonsils.
- Simultaneous isolation of numerous bacterial species from both tonsils and lower third molars suggests a shared microbial environment.