[Protozoa of the human oral cavity (epidemiological correlations and pathogenic possibilities]

Abstract

The oral protozoa frequency has been studied in 300 patients consulting for oral problems. Entamoeba gingivalis has been isolated more frequently in culture than Trichomonas tenax (50.7% against 28%). The age range which showed the highest frequency in protozoa was the 30-34 year old group for the amoeba and the 45-54 year old group for the flagellae. The endemia increased progressively in relation to the OHIS index. Trichomonas tenax is three times more frequent in case of deep periodontal diseases whereas, Entamoeba gingivalis reached its highest frequency in the case of gingivitis. The pathogenic potentials of these protozoa have been discussed in the light of these correlations and some therapeutical arguments.