Send Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Patients to the Dentist?
SOURCE: Kellesarian SV, Malignaggi VR, Kellesarian TV, et al. Int J Impotence Res 2017;29:89-95.
We are becoming progressively enlightened about the intimate relationship between the microbiome (healthy “constitutive” bacteria throughout the body, particularly the gastrointestinal tract) and health. Periodontal disease is a local inflammatory disorder with wide-ranging consequences. It is associated with increased expression of systemic vascular adhesion molecules, tumor necrosis factor, and interleukins. Downstream effects of periodontal disease lead to endothelial dysfunction and have been linked to atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and hypogonadism. This literature review by Kellesarian et al suggested an additional consequence of periodontal disease: polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Seven case-controlled studies of subjects (n = 770) with PCOS who had undergone evaluation for periodontal health provided the data for evaluation. In each of the studies, a positive association was found between PCOS and periodontal disease.
The link between PCOS and diabetes is well established. These data are limited by the fact that the only available clinical data come from relatively small, short-term trials. Nonetheless, the authors suggested that the consistency of the results (all seven trials found the same positive association) should prompt clinicians to refer PCOS patients for assessment of periodontal health.
In seven studies, there was a positive association between polycystic ovary syndrome and periodontal disease.
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