Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Bacteria in gum pockets and blood changes in dogs with gum disease
By Polkowska, Izabela et al.·Published in In vivo (Athens, Greece)·2014·Department and Clinic of Animal Surgery·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Analysis of gingival pocket microflora and biochemical blood parameters in dogs suffering from periodontal disease.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of 21 dogs suffering from advanced gum disease (periodontal disease) had samples taken from their gums and blood tests done to check for bacteria and other health markers. The tests showed that dogs with more severe gum disease had higher levels of certain blood markers and more harmful bacteria in their mouths. Specifically, dogs in the worst stage of gum disease had lower hemoglobin levels and higher white blood cell counts, indicating a more serious infection. Understanding these factors can help veterinarians create better treatment plans and monitor recovery for dogs with gum disease.
People also search for: dog gum disease symptoms · periodontal disease treatment for dogs · dog blood test results explained
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM: Periodontal diseases in dogs are caused by bacteria colonising the oral cavity. The presence of plaque comprising accumulations of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria leads to the development of periodontitis. Due to the fact that in a large percentage of cases periodontal diseases remain undiagnosed, and consequently untreated, they tend to acquire a chronic character, lead to bacteraemia and negatively impact the health of internal organs. The aim of the present study was to perform a qualitative microbiological analysis of gingival pockets and determine the correlations between selected morphological and biochemical blood parameters and the extent periodontal diseases. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-one dogs treated for periodontal diseases were qualified for the study and subsequently divided into two groups: with 3rd and 4th stage of periodontal disease. Swabs from the patients' gingival pockets were taken for bacteriological testing. Blood was tested for parameters including erythrocyte count, haemoglobin concentration, haematocrit values and leukocyte count. Blood serum was analyzed with respect to the concentrations of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AspAT/AST) and urea. RESULTS: The microbiological analysis of gingival pockets indicated the presence of numerous pathogens with a growth tendency in bacterial cultures observed in dogs with advanced-stage periodontal disease. The concentration of biochemical blood markers was significantly higher in dogs with 4th stage of periodontal disease, to compared to the 3rd-stage group. Morphological parameters were not significantly different with the exception of haemoglobin concentration, which was lower in dogs with 4th stage disease. In both groups, elevated leukocyte counts were observed. CONCLUSION: By conducting a detailed microbiological examination, it is possible to provide a better prognosis, plan adequate treatment and monitor dogs treated for peridontopathy.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25398803/