Identification of periodontal pathogens in atheromatous plaques

Aim of the study

To test the hypothesis that oral microorganisms enter the blood circulation where they could play a role in the development and progression of artherosclerosis, leading to coronary vascular disease (CVD).

Materials and methods

Fifty specimens obtained during carotid endarterectomy were examined for Chlamydia pneumoniae, cytomegalovirus and bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA : this RNA was amplified by the PCR method using oligonucleotide primers specific for Aa, Bf, Pg and Pi.

Results

Of the 50 patients, 80 % were positive for at least one of these organisms. 38 % were positive for cytomegalovirus and 18 % for C. pneumoniae. On the other hand, 44 % of 50 atheromatous plaques were positive for at least one of the periodontal pathogens (30 % positive for Bf, 26 % for Pg, 18 % for Aa and 14 % for Pi.

Conclusion

Periodontal pathogens are present in atheromatous plaques and play a role in the development of artherosclerosis.

Commentaries

This study confirms the importance of screening for periodontal diseases, even if the role of these pathogens in the formation and development of atheromatous plaques has yet to be elucidated.