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Abstract
Periodontal diseases are a group of infectious diseases caused by predominently Gram-negative, anaerobic bacteria that colonize the subgingival area. Inflamed periodontal tissues produce significant amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines which may have systemic effects on the host being at risk for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, pulmonary infections, osteoporosis and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
It is well known that infection during pregnancy can lead to preterm delivery. Certain mediators produced by Gram-negative microorganism infections can result in a deletrious effect on fetal development.
TNF- α is the principle mediator of the inflammatory response to Gram-negative bacteria and is responsible for many biological activities as acute phase proteins synthesis, bone resorption and apoptosis.
It is produced from macrophages, monocytes, activated T cells and mast cells. An increase in the intraamniotic levels of PGE2 and TNF- α was detected throughout pregnancy until a critical threshold level was reached to induce labor.
Periodontal infection, which is a reservoir for Gram-negative anaerobic microorganisms, lipopolysaccharides, and inflammatory mediators, can represent a risk for adverse pregnancy results.