Clinical state of the patients with periodontitis, IL-1 polymorphism and pathogens in periodontal pocket – is there a link? (An introductory report)

Kowalski J, Górska R, Dragan M, Kozak I

Abstract

Purpose: According to last years’ research, polymorphism of IL-1 has an influence on the progression of periodontal disease. Oral mouth microflora can also have an effect on the disease process. The aim of the work was to evaluate the amount of microbacterial pathogens in the periodontal pockets of patients with positive and negative genotype.

Material and methods: Study group comprised of 16 patients, aged 25-50 years. Only patients with severe generalized form of chronic periodontititis were included into the study. After clinical examination patients were subjected to the IL-1 genotype evaluation (Genotype PST, Hain Lifescience GmbH, Germany) and PCR examination of selected bacteria pathological for periodontium (Perio-Analyse, Pierre Fabre Medicament, France).

Results: 7 out of 16 individuals were diagnosed as genotype positive (alleles 2 for genes IL-1A and IL-1B). Genetically positive individuals had greater mean pocket depth, clinical attachment loss and percentage of pockets deeper than 4 mm. Although in both groups similar bacterial pathogens have been identified, greater amounts of bacteria have been counted in group with positive genotype. Total count of bacteria from so-called “red complex” (P. gingivalis, T. forsythensis, T. denticola), and “orange complex” (F. nucleatum, P. micros, P. intermedia, C. rectus) were respectively 3-fold and 2-fold higher in group with positive genotype, despite the fact that group was smaller (7 vs 9 persons with negative genotype). Number and species of bacteria seems to correlate with pocket depth, clinical attachment loss, and percentage of pockets deeper than 4 mm.

Conclusion: Observed association may have an influence on increased severity of periodontal disease in patients with positive genotype.

Key words: bacteria, IL-1 genotype, periodontitis.