PERIODONTITIS AGRESIVA CAUSADA POR PORPHYROMONAS GINGIVALIS. REPORTE DE UN CASO.

Abstract

Periodontitis is a destructive disease most frequently affecting adults. The aggressive forms might children and teenagers, but in this case the prevalence is lower. The term “juvenile periodontitis” has been replaced by “aggressive periodontitis”, as described by the American Academy of Periodontology in late 1999. Aggressive periodontitis is defined as a specific type of periodontitis different to chronic periodontitis. Both localized and generalized forms of aggressive periodontitis are characterized by a fast loss of insertion and bone support. Different aetiological factors intervene in this periodontitis: microbiological, genetic and immunological. The most frequently reported aetiological agent in aggressive periodontitis is Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans. This differs from our study’s findings, where Porphyromonas gingivalis prevailed. High levels of seric antibodies (IgG and IgA) directly related with the immunological response were found. The prognosis of aggressive periodontitis is reserved, but an early diagnosis does improve it. It is essential that children and teenagers receive a routine periodontal and radiological check up during their visit to the dentist