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Mammalian viruses in human periodontitis
1Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles 90089-0641, USA.
Oral Microbiology and Immunology
|December 1, 1996
Summary
Viruses like human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) are more common in deep periodontal pockets of patients with periodontitis than in shallow sites. This suggests a role for viruses in severe gum disease progression.
Area of Science:
- Oral Microbiology
- Virology
- Periodontology
Background:
- Previous studies indicated a higher prevalence of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in periodontitis compared to gingivitis.
- The role of specific viruses in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of HCMV, EBV-1, EBV-2, HSV, and HIV in subgingival samples from periodontitis and gingivitis sites in the same individuals.
- To investigate the association between viral presence and periodontal disease severity.
Main Methods:
- Nested-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for viral detection.
- Subgingival plaque samples were collected from both periodontitis and gingivitis sites in 27 adult subjects.
- Statistical analysis (chi-square test) was employed to compare viral frequencies between site types.
Main Results:
- A high prevalence of tested viruses (89%) was found in deep periodontal pockets, significantly higher than in shallow sites (56%).
- Viral co-infections were more frequent in deep periodontal sites.
- Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) showed a significantly higher detection rate in deep compared to shallow periodontal sites.
Conclusions:
- Mammalian viruses, particularly HCMV, are frequently detected in subgingival samples from periodontitis patients.
- The findings support the hypothesis that viruses may contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of destructive periodontal disease.
- Further research into the role of HCMV and other viruses in periodontitis is warranted.