anticollagenolytic property of tetracycline: a potential therapeutic implication for juvenile periodontitis

ABSTRACT

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of systemic tetracycline administration as an adjunct to local therapy in localized juvenile periodontitis [LJP] patients. Sixteen patients [12 females and 4 males], aged 13-20 years, were included in this investigation. Clinical examination was carried out including gingival condition, pocket depth, attachment level and periapical radiographs for the affected sites. The treatment was performed in the form of scaling, root planning, soft tissue curettage under local anesthesia and periodontal surgery when indicated. Each patient received tetracycline 250 mg qds for 2 weeks concomitantly with the start of periodontal treatment. Revaluation of periodontal status was performed 3 and 6 months after treatment. The results revealed that most of patients exhibited resolution in gingival inflammation, gain of attachment, decreased probing depth and bone deposition or at least of bone resorption. In contrast 3 cases failed to respond to the combined therapy. However, the result of this investigation reinforced the use of combined systemic tetracycline administration and local therapy in LJP patients