Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax in Periodontal Disease

Abstract

This review is aimed at elucidating the role of Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax in the aetiology of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease results from localised inflammation of the periodontium due to plaque accumulation and if left untreated can lead to loss of teeth. Although dental plaque is composed mainly of bacteria, Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax, both of which are protozoan parasites have been found in plaque and implicated in periodontal disease. E. gingivalis is an amoeba associated with poor oral hygiene while T. tenax is a pyriform flagellate that lives in the tartar around the teeth, cavities of carious teeth, necrotic mucosal cells in the gingival margins of gums and pus pockets in tonsillar follicles. These parasites are transmitted by close contact, saliva, droplet spray and kissing or use of contaminated dishes, cups, spoons and forks as well as drinking water. Age, gender, socio-economic status, dental condition and gingival pathology have been reported to influence the presence of the parasite. Genetic variability and stress are also some of the factors that determine the transition of the periodontium at some gingival sites from healthy to inflame. Researchers have observed that the prevalence and severity of periodontitis is higher in developing countries than developed countries. But with good oral hygiene, regular scaling and polishing and use of antiparasitic drugs, periodontal disease caused by these parasites can be prevented and periodontal health restored.

Prevalence of Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax among Patients ‎suffering from Chronic Systemic Diseases in Egypt ‎

“…and 52.4% in (41-60 Y.). This is in agreement with previous studies that the prevalence of these protozoa increases with age as 35% (<40 years) to reach 85% in older subjects (>60Y) [22]. A study performed on diabetic patients concluded that prevalence increases with age with maximum prevalence in (61 -70 age group) [7].…”

Neuroparasitology- A New Horizon

“…[ 9 ] The other original article deals with association and role in pathogenesis of two oral commensal protozoa in peri-odontal disease. [ 10 ] In the Dispatch section, there is one case report of appendicitis caused by Entamoeba ,[ 11 ] and another of Hydatid disease in the infraspinatus muscle. [ 12 ] Subcutaneous dirofilariasis,[ 13 ] a series of three cases of hepatic visceral larva migrans caused by Toxocara spp,[ 14 ] and finding of four protozoa in the stool of a patient[ 15 ] constitutes the other dispatch articles.…”