Analysis of the oral microflora for the prevention from aspiration pneumonia.

2014 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 24792369
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Social dentistry
• Research Institution: Tsurumi University
• Principal Investigator: ABO Tomoko 鶴見大学, 歯学部, 寄附講座助教 (00420282)
• Project Period (FY): 2012-04-01 – 2015-03-31
• Keywords: 誤嚥性肺炎 / 口腔細菌叢

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The purpose of this study was to estimate the species richness of oral microflora in the disabled elderly persons suffering from aspiration pneumonia and to analyze of the microflora with careful consideration on their underlying diseases. Ten patients participated after adequate informed consents. Saliva and supergingival plaque were collected by rubbing and brushing with a toothbrush or a sponge brush. Fusobacterium nucleatum was detected in 9 participants. Because Fusobacterium nucleatum is well known as one of the periodontal disease pathogens, it is speculated that this species may be involved in not only the plaque formation on the tooth surface and tongue but also the coagulation on oral mucosal debris. Being detected opportunistic infection bacteria such as Candida sp. is very meaningful. A major problem might be inconsideration on the oral hygiene care for the most participants. Oral hygiene care is inevitable way to prevent from aspiration-related pneumonia.

Free Research Field

予防歯科学