Oral colonization of Gram-negative anaerobes as a risk factor for preterm birth
Abstract
Preterm birth significantly impacts on neonatal
morbidity and mortality and is apparently increasing worldwide.
Several studies have attempted to define a causative role
for periodontal disease in adverse pregnancy outcomes but
few have focused on the microbiology of periodontal disease
in relation to these outcomes.
Results: The evidence for a positive correlation is strong,
supported by microbiological and immunological findings.
Conflicting results are often associated with uncontrolled confounding
factors.
Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted
in order to establish whether or not a role exists for oral Gramnegative
bacteria in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Association
and intervention studies are summarized along with pathogenic
potential of the Gram-negative bacteria most frequently
implicated in periodontal disease.