Microbiology of periodontal disease in adolescents with Type 1 diabetes

Background and aims: Diabetes and periodontal disease are chronic disorders with complex interplay. Periodontal microbiota may play a major role in the development of periodontal disease (PD). The study was framed to identify oral microorganisms and assess oral biofilm in children & adolescents with T1DM and PD.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study we recruited a total of 60 subjects aged 10-18 years (in 3 groups of 20 each). Group 1: Diabetes with periodontal disease (DMPD), Group 2: Diabetes without periodontal disease (DM), Group 3: Periodontal disease without Diabetes (PD).Gingival plaque samples were collected and processed for culture based microbial identification and biofilm assay.

Results: The microbial diversity in the DMPD group was higher. Staphylococcus warneri was the only organism specifically isolated from DMPD group. Staphylococcus vitulinus, Streptococcus sanguinis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, was commonly isolated from both DMPD and PD group especially higher incidence in DMPD group (P ≤ 0.001).There was a strong positive correlation between poor glycaemic control and biofilm formation in both Groups 1 & 2 (DMPD and DM) patients (Spearman's Rho: 0.868, P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Children & adolescents with T1DM with worse glycaemic control, associated with higher abundance of biofilm formation and greater microbial diversity, especially in those with T1DM with PD.