Correlates of Urinary Tract Infections Among Women of Reproductive Age in India: A Systematic Review.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a significant health concern globally, with a pronounced impact on women's health in India. This systematic literature review aims to elucidate the factors associated with UTIs among women of reproductive age in India and focus on demographic, behavioral, and physiological factors to inform targeted public health and clinical interventions. A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar using specific MeSH terms and preferred reporting items for systematic literature reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to investigate the correlates of UTIs among Indian women. Studies were selected based on their relevance to the correlates of UTIs among Indian women, including risk factors, prevention strategies, and treatment outcomes. The review identified a significant prevalence of UTIs among pregnant women, with Escherichia coli being the most common causative agent. Younger women, particularly those pregnant, were found to be at a higher risk, likely due to physiological changes during pregnancy and increased sexual activity. Behavioral and lifestyle factors, such as inadequate water intake and poor sanitation practices, were strongly associated with increased risks for UTIs. Factors that increase the risk of UTIs in women include frequent sexual activity, involvement with a new sexual partner, spermicide use that can potentially alter vaginal pH and impact its bacterial composition, and vulvovaginal atrophy. Additionally, nearly 60% of women globally with recurrent UTIs experienced sexual dysfunction, indicating the broader implications of UTIs on women's sexual health and quality of life. UTIs among women in India are influenced by a complex interplay of factors. There is a critical need for enhanced public health initiatives focusing on sanitation, hydration, and hygiene, alongside holistic clinical management strategies that address both the infection and its broader health impacts. Future research should aim at developing innovative prevention and treatment strategies, with a particular focus on high-risk groups such as pregnant women, to mitigate the burden of UTIs in India.

Rituximab in Childhood and Juvenile Pemphigus Vulgaris: A Systematic Review.

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a chronic autoimmune blistering disorder characterized by the loss of intraepithelial adhesion, affecting the skin and mucous membranes. Both males and females are affected, although it predominantly affects females in their fifth and sixth decades of life. Approximately 1.4 to 3.7% of PV cases occur in the pediatric population (≤18 years of age), and may be classified into childhood/pediatric PV, which affects individuals under 12 years old, and juvenile/adolescent PV, affecting those between 12 and 18 years old. Due to its rare occurrence in children and adolescents, there is often a delay in diagnosis and treatment in this age group. A systematic literature search was conducted on MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Library databases to evaluate the efficacy of rituximab (RTX) in childhood and juvenile PV patients. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist was employed to assess the risk of bias in case reports and series, while the Cochrane ROBINS-I tool was utilized for evaluating observational studies or non-randomized intervention studies. A total of 18 studies encompassing 46 juvenile or childhood PV patients in the pediatric and adolescent age groups were included for qualitative synthesis. The studies included nine case reports, two case series, five retrospective studies, one prospective study, and one open-label pilot study. Almost all cases of childhood and juvenile PV achieved either complete or partial remission after undergoing RTX treatment during the final follow-up periods. Furthermore, most cases reported no relapse, and only minor adverse events were noted in the RTX treatment group. Despite its potential benefits, the utilization of RTX in pediatric patients raises concerns due to the scarcity of evidence and the absence of controlled studies specific to this age group. Further exploration is necessary to establish a standardized treatment regimen for RTX in pediatric PV, which involves identifying the optimal dosage, frequency, treatment cycle duration, and maintenance therapy duration.

Effectiveness of Ayurveda Intervention in the Management of Infertility: A Systematic Review.

Infertility is encountered as a stressful condition by couples worldwide, impacting not just their physical and mental well-being but also placing financial strain on them. Ayurvedic management provides a promising, cost-effective avenue for addressing infertility disorders and enhances the success rates of in vitro fertilization (IVF), especially after previous unsuccessful attempts. This study aims to enhance clinical evidence and expand the scope of Ayurvedic approaches for managing infertility. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Scopus search engines for studies evaluating Ayurveda treatment modalities in infertility. Articles were searched using a combination of Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms, and the risk of bias was assessed using Robvis and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tool. The review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. A total of 14 studies were considered in this systematic review, involving 248 patients. Among them, 84 were males and 164 were females. Of the 14 included studies, six were original studies, whereas eight were case reports. Our research contributes to addressing a notable research gap by conducting a comprehensive analysis of Ayurvedic treatments for infertility or medical conditions that lead to infertility. However, the limited sample size and lack of standardized protocols highlight the need for rigorous experimental research to establish the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic treatments for infertility.

Juvenile pemphigus vulgaris: Literature review and a rare case report.

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a chronic autoimmune blistering disorder characterized by the loss of intraepithelial adhesion affecting the skin and mucous membranes, predominantly affects females in their fifth and sixth decades of life. Due to its rare occurrence in children and adolescents, there is often a delay in diagnosis and treatment in this age group. PV should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of oral ulcerative and vesiculobullous lesions in both children and adolescents.

Acceptability and Satisfaction of Patients and Providers With Telemedicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review.

COVID-19, also known as coronavirus disease 2019, is an extremely contagious viral sickness caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). After the first cases of this primarily respiratory viral illness were recorded in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, in late December 2019, SARS-CoV-2 rapidly disseminated across the globe. Consequently, on March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a global pandemic. The rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus, coupled with subsequent lockdowns and social distancing measures, profoundly disrupted traditional healthcare delivery systems. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine emerged as a pivotal solution for delivering healthcare services while minimizing exposure to the virus. This study aims to assess patient and provider satisfaction with telemedicine during this unprecedented period. A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar using specific MeSH terms and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Literature Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to summarize patient and provider satisfaction concerning telemedicine using all the facts, evidence, and published literature. The analysis showed that although providers were generally satisfied with telemedicine, they were less satisfied than patients due to technical issues and difficulties transmitting documents. Patients reported high satisfaction with telemedicine, citing convenience and cost savings as major benefits. However, a lack of provider compensation was identified as a potential barrier to adoption. Most providers believed that telemedicine was only necessary in emergencies while a few recognized its potential for routine care. The study concludes that telemedicine has the potential to improve healthcare access and efficiency, but more research is needed to address technical and reimbursement issues and to determine the appropriate scope of telemedicine use. Overall, the findings of this study can inform future healthcare policies and regulations to ensure that telemedicine is used effectively and to the satisfaction of both patients and providers.

Accuracy of machine learning in the diagnosis of odontogenic cysts and tumors: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The recent impact of artificial intelligence in diagnostic services has been enormous. Machine learning tools offer an innovative alternative to diagnose cysts and tumors radiographically that pose certain challenges due to the near similar presentation, anatomical variations, and superimposition. It is crucial that the performance of these models is evaluated for their clinical applicability in diagnosing cysts and tumors. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was carried out on eminent databases for published studies between January 2015 and December 2022. Studies utilizing machine learning models in the diagnosis of odontogenic cysts or tumors using Orthopantomograms (OPG) or Cone Beam Computed Tomographic images (CBCT) were included. QUADAS-2 tool was used for the assessment of the risk of bias and applicability concerns. Meta-analysis was performed for studies reporting sufficient performance metrics, separately for OPG and CBCT. RESULTS: 16 studies were included for qualitative synthesis including a total of 10,872 odontogenic cysts and tumors. The sensitivity and specificity of machine learning in diagnosing cysts and tumors through OPG were 0.83 (95% CI 0.81-0.85) and 0.82 (95% CI 0.81-0.83) respectively. Studies utilizing CBCT noted a sensitivity of 0.88 (95% CI 0.87-0.88) and specificity of 0.88 (95% CI 0.87-0.89). Highest classification accuracy was 100%, noted for Support Vector Machine classifier. CONCLUSION: The results from the present review favoured machine learning models to be used as a clinical adjunct in the radiographic diagnosis of odontogenic cysts and tumors, provided they undergo robust training with a huge dataset. However, the arduous process, investment, and certain ethical concerns associated with the total dependence on technology must be taken into account. Standardized reporting of outcomes for diagnostic studies utilizing machine learning methods is recommended to ensure homogeneity in assessment criteria, facilitate comparison between different studies, and promote transparency in research findings.

Basal Cell Adenoma of the Upper Lip: Report of a Rare Case With Literature Review.

Basal cell adenoma (BCA) is a rare, benign tumor originating from the epithelial cells of the salivary glands. It was earlier categorized as a subtype of monomorphic adenoma with distinctive histopathological features. BCA usually manifests as asymptomatic, slow-growing masses that exhibit a site and age predilection, commonly affecting the major salivary glands of elderly female patients. Histologically, solid, trabecular, tubular, and membranous patterns are recognized. It is imperative to establish a precise distinction between BCA, pleomorphic adenoma, and malignant salivary gland tumors before initiating treatment to ensure effective management. The standard treatment approach is surgical resection of the tumor. Recurrence and malignant transformation rarely occur, except for the membranous subtype. This article aims to report an unusual case of BCA arising from a minor salivary gland in the upper lip. The post-operative course was unremarkable, with complete healing of the surgical site. No recurrence was observed during a one-year follow-up. BCA arising from a minor salivary gland in the upper lip is an extremely uncommon entity. A comprehensive review of BCA in the upper lip, reported from 1991 to December 2023, revealed only 14 cases.

Management of Palatogingival Groove in Maxillary Lateral Incisor: A Report of a Rare Case With a Brief Review of Literature.

Several morphological abnormalities may occur during tooth development and may be a predisposing factor for periodontal destruction. Palatogingival groove (PGG) is a developmental deformity that may cause localized periodontitis and endodontic complexities. The groove usually originates as a root indentation in the central fossa of the palatal root of maxillary lateral incisors. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is an excellent radiographic imaging technique capable of identifying PGGs and provides details about the exact site, extent, and depth characteristics of this deformity. Early diagnosis and management of PGGs are of utmost importance, particularly due to their diagnostic intricacies that can pose both clinical and therapeutic challenges. This article aims to report a rare case of palatogingival groove associated with an on-and-off discharge from the maxillary left lateral incisor tooth (#22). Nonsurgical endodontic treatment was carried out with #22, and the palatogingival groove was sealed with composite restoration after a deep curettage. Excellent radiographic healing was observed after a six-month follow-up.

Lepromatous Leprosy Manifesting As Chronic Macrocheilia: Report of a Rare Case.

Leprosy is a chronic debilitating disorder caused by the acid-fast bacilli Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae) and Mycobacterium lepromatosis. These bacilli exhibit a distinctive predilection for the skin and peripheral nerves, although they can potentially impact any system in the body. Lately, there has been a notable reduction in mucosal symptoms, largely attributed to the timely diagnosis and treatment of leprosy. Nonetheless, oral lesions continue to hold significant epidemiological importance due to their crucial role in disease transmission. Oral manifestations, although rare, are frequently encountered in individuals afflicted with multi-bacillary leprosy. Chronic macrocheilia is an exceedingly rare manifestation of the disease, with only a few documented case reports and case studies. This article aims to document an exceptionally uncommon case of lepromatous leprosy with chronic macrocheilia as the sole presenting feature.

Primary Tuberculosis of Buccal and Labial Mucosa: Literature Review and a Rare Case Report of a Public Health Menace.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic granulomatous infectious disorder, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Despite the recent advancements in antitubercular therapy (ATT), it remains a global public health concern. TB is a leading infectious cause of global mortality, second only to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). TB of the oral cavity is an uncommon occurrence and may be classified as a primary and secondary form. The primary tubercular lesions are extremely rare, as the intact oral squamous epithelium resists the entry of tubercle bacilli. The commonest oral TB lesion is solitary ulceration with undermined edges, usually on the tongue, that does not exhibit healing with conservative therapies. Owing to the atypical presentation, the oral TB lesions often go unnoticed during clinical examination; hence, an oral physician should be familiar with the various oral manifestations of TB. A timely diagnosis coupled with interdisciplinary treatment is the key to combat disease dissemination. This manuscript aims to report a rare case of primary tuberculosis of the buccal and labial mucosa in a 43-year-old immunocompetent male patient. Buccal and labial mucosa are the infrequently affected sites for primary oral TB lesions. A detailed literature search carried out on the Google Scholar and PubMed search engines revealed only fifteen case reports and two case series of primary tuberculosis of the buccal mucosa and labial mucosa.

Infantile Hemangioma of the Upper Lip: Report of a Rare Case With a Brief Review of Literature.

Hamartomas are tumor-like abnormalities typified by the presence of cellular proliferation indigenous to the native site. However, hamartomas maintain growth cessation without the potential for further growth or malignant transformation. Hamartomas are commonly seen in the lungs, kidney, liver, and spleen and rarely occur in the orofacial region. Various hamartomatous oral lesions include hemangiomas, lymphangiomas, tori, exostosis, dens invaginatus, dens evaginatus, odontomas, nevi, and cherubism. Infantile hemangiomas are benign vascular tumors that emerge soon after birth and experience rapid growth within the first year. Oral hemangiomas affect up to 6.4% of infants and are more common on the ventral surface of the tongue, as opposed to oral vascular malformations, which are more prevalent on the lips. It also has a 3:1 female-to-male predominance. Afterward, their growth usually stabilizes and enters a prolonged, incomplete involution phase. Uncomplicated hemangiomas generally exhibit spontaneous resolution, whereas few can leave behind scars and telangiectasias on the external surface of the skin on which it occurs. Thus, lesions located in anatomically sensitive regions necessitate vigilant surveillance and treatment. This paper deals with an asymptomatic swelling of the upper lip in a four-year-old female child but with problems in aesthetics, speech, and feeding. A thorough history, clinical examination, positive diascopy, ultrasonography, and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of infantile hemangioma.

Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy in Oral Lichen Planus: A Systematic Review.

Background and Objectives: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is an autoimmune, mucocutaneous, oral potentially malignant disorder (OPMD), which characteristically manifests with chronic, recalcitrant lesions, with frequent flare-ups and remissions. The precise etiopathogenesis of OLP is still debatable, although it is believed to be a T-cell-mediated disorder of an unidentified antigen. Despite the availability of various treatments, no cure for OLP exists due to its recalcitrant nature and idiopathic etiology. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties, in addition to its regulatory action on keratinocyte differentiation and proliferation. These salient properties substantiate the possible role of PRP in the treatment of OLP. Our systematic review focuses on assessing the therapeutic potential of PRP as a treatment modality in OLP. Materials and Methods: We conducted a detailed literature search for studies assessing PRP as a therapeutic regimen in OLP, using the Google Scholar and PubMed/MEDLINE search engines. The search was limited to studies published from January 2000 to January 2023 and included a combination of Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms. ROBVIS analysis was carried out for the assessment of publication bias. Descriptive statistics were performed using Microsoft Excel. Results: This systematic review included five articles that met the inclusion criteria. Most of the included studies demonstrated that PRP treatment considerably ameliorated both objective and subjective symptoms in OLP subjects, with comparable efficacy to the standard corticosteroid treatment. Further, PRP therapy offers the added benefit of minimal adverse effects and recurrences. Conclusion: This systematic review suggests that PRP has significant therapeutic potential for treating OLP. However, further research with larger sample sizes is imperative to corroborate these findings.

Fumarate and nitrite reduction by Prevotella nigrescens and Prevotella buccae isolated from Chronic Periodontitis patients.

OBJECTIVE: This study is an investigation of anaerobic nitrite and fumarate reduction/respiration abilities of two characterised Prevotella species namely Prevotella nigrescens (SS6B) and Prevotella buccae (GS6B) isolated from the periodontal pockets of chronic periodontitis (ChP) patients. METHODS: Isolation and identification of the periodontal bacteria from 20 patients showing clinical symptoms of ChP. Characterisation of anaerobic nitrite and fumarate reduction was done in P. nigrescens (SS6B) and P. buccae (GS6B) using reduction assays, inhibition assays with use of specific inhibitors, growth assays and enzyme activity assays. Degenerate PCR was used to detect and amplify nitrite reductase (nrfA) and fumarate reductase (frdA) gene sequences in these Prevotella isolates. In addition, molecular and in silico analysis of the amplified anaerobic reductase gene sequences was performed using NCBI conserved domain analysis, Interpro database and MegaX. RESULTS: We provided experimental evidence for presence of active nitrite and fumarate reductase activities through enzyme activity, reduction, inhibitor and growth assays. Moreover, we were able to detect presence of 505 bps nrfA gene fragment and 400 bps frdA gene fragment in these Prevotella spp. These fragments show similarity to multiheme ammonia forming cytochrome c nitrite reductases and fumarate reductases flavoprotein subunit, respectively. CONCLUSION: Anaerobic nitrite and fumarate respiration abilities in P. nigrescens and P. buccae isolates appear to be important for detoxification process and growth, respectively.

Sturge-Weber Syndrome: A Report of a Rare Case.

Sturge-Weber Syndrome (SWS) is a rare congenital developmental disorder that arises from the abnormal persistence of the embryonic vascular plexus. The syndrome encompasses hamartomatous malformations that can impact the skin, eyes, and nervous system. The broad array of clinical manifestations and potentially life-threatening complications underscores the crucial and imperative need for an accurate diagnosis. An effective treatment strategy for SWS patients involves a multidisciplinary approach. Dental procedures in these individuals pose challenges due to the potential risk for substantial bleeding during both intra- and postoperative phases. This article aims to document a rare case of Sturge Weber Syndrome in a 21-year-old female patient who presented with seizures, unilateral facial port wine stains, gingival hyperplasia, and intracranial calcifications.

Nasopalatine Duct Cyst with Impacted Inverted Mesiodens: A Rare Case Report and Literature Review.

Nasopalatine duct cyst (NPDC) is a non-odontogenic, developmental epithelial cyst that accounts for 1% of maxillary cysts. It often arises due to the spontaneous proliferation of the epithelial tissue remnants, although trauma, bacterial infection, and mucous retention may also trigger the proliferation. Owing to its slow-growing, asymptomatic nature, the cyst is often discovered as an accidental finding during routine clinical and radiographic examinations. However, the majority of cases present as a tiny, asymptomatic swelling just posterior to the palatine papillae. Radiographically, it appears as a well-defined oval or round radiolucency in the maxillary anterior teeth region and should be differentially diagnosed with inflammatory periapical lesions and a wide incisive foramen. A pulp vitality test is essential to rule out lesions of endodontic origin. Microscopically, NPDCs display a mixed pattern of the epithelial lining and exhibit neurovascular bundles (small to medium-sized nerves, arteries, and veins), and minor salivary glands in the cystic connective tissue, a distinctive feature facilitating a confirmatory diagnosis. Enucleation and marsupialization remain the treatment of choice. NPDC associated with impacted mesiodens is an extremely uncommon entity. A comprehensive literature search carried out on the PubMed and Google Scholar search engines revealed only three cases of NPDC with impacted mesiodens to date. The purpose of this study is to report an extremely rare case of NPDC associated with an impacted inverted mesiodens in a 19-year-old male patient who presented with an asymptomatic swelling in the maxillary anterior teeth region. To the best of our knowledge, this is only the fourth reported case of NPDC with impacted mesiodens.

Vitamin D in the Treatment of Oral Lichen Planus: A Systematic Review.

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic mucocutaneous condition that affects up to 2% of the general population, and typically presents with long-standing, non-responsive lesions, with episodes of exacerbation and remissions. The etiopathogenesis of OLP is still unclear, although, it has been postulated that it is most likely a T-cell-mediated condition of an unknown antigen. The treatment remains a challenge with no defined treatment strategy. Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, along with its regulatory effect on keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation; thus, suggesting its possible role in the treatment of OLP. This systematic review aims to evaluate the therapeutic role of vitamin D in OLP treatment. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, and Google scholar search engines for studies evaluating vitamin D as a treatment modality in OLP from January 2000 to August 2022. Articles were searched with the combination of Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms. A web platform for visualizing risk-of-bias assessment was used in this review, and descriptive statistics were calculated. Out of the seventeen retrieved studies, five articles meeting the inclusion criteria were considered in this systematic review. All the included studies demonstrated significant amelioration in the OLP symptoms in patients who were given vitamin D supplements as an adjuvant to the conventional steroid therapy and or placebo. This systematic review signifies the role of vitamin D as adjuvant therapy for OLP. However, more studies with larger sample size are required to validate these results.

Monkeypox Disease: An Emerging Public Health Concern in the Shadow of COVID-19 Pandemic: An Update.

The last few decades have witnessed an appalling rise in several emerging and re-emerging viral and zoonotic outbreaks. Such outbreaks are a lesson to learn from and seek insight into better disease monitoring and surveillance, thus preventing future outbreaks. Monkeypox, a viral zoonotic illness caused by the monkeypox virus, may no longer be endemic to the tropical rainforests of Central and West Africa. However, the current monkeypox outbreak in nonendemic countries is most likely due to failure to curb the disease dissemination in endemic African regions despite decades of constant outbreaks. The clinical manifestations are typified by a prodromal phase (fever, myalgia, malaise, and lymphadenopathy) followed by maculopapular or vesicular, or pustular cutaneous eruptions that eventually form encrustations and peel off. Children and the elderly, pregnant females, and individuals living with comorbidities (diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and lymphoproliferative ailments) are at a high risk of severe disease. Monkeypox is a self-limiting disorder, but its complications and pandemic potential signify its immense public health relevance. The recent ongoing monkeypox outbreak in nonendemic nations areas was identified with increased propensity in men who have sex with men (MSMs) with no travel history to endemic regions, emphasizing the changing trends in disease transmission. This review article provides an updated overview of the monkeypox disease taxonomy, pathogenesis, transmission, epidemiology, clinical and oral features, diagnostic aids, differential diagnosis, preventive aspects, and treatment protocol.

HIV-Associated Systemic Sclerosis: Literature Review and a Rare Case Report.

Highly antiretroviral therapy (HAART) used in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) treatment may prolong the life span of people living with HIV/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) but may also induce the onset of autoimmune disorders. However, HIV-associated systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an extremely rare occurrence, and only four case reports and two studies documenting this association have been reported to date. We report a rare case of HIV-associated SSc who was referred to us for pain management in her mandibular teeth. A 44-year-old female patient diagnosed with HIV-associated SSc reported a complaint of pain in the lower posterior teeth region. Physical examination revealed typical features of SSc. The pain in her mandibular teeth was due to food lodgement, and she was advised to use toothpaste with a powered toothbrush and mouth stretching exercises, followed by oral prophylaxis. The patient responded well to therapy. HIV-associated SSc is an extremely rare occurrence, with an obscure pathogenic mechanism of HIV-associated autoimmunity. Oral physicians play a crucial role in disease management and should be incorporated into the multidisciplinary team.

Prevalence of nutrient canals in mandibular anterior intra-oral periapical radiographs (IOPARS) in patients with chronic systemic diseases - a cross-sectional study.

Nutrient canals (NCs) are passages containing neurovascular bundles (blood vessels, lymph vessels, and nerves). Best visualized on mandibular anterior intraoral periapical radiographs (IOPAR), their presence is usually associated with underlying pathological such as diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), advanced periodontitis, calcium deficiency, tuberculosis, and disuse atrophy. This study aimed to (a) evaluate NC prevalence in patients with DM, HTN, and chronic periodontitis and (b) correlate the detection of NCs as an important preliminary screening tool for inherent systemic diseases like DM, HTN, and chronic periodontitis and as an investigative clue in age and gender determination. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 subjects. Patients with complaints of pain in the mandibular anterior teeth, deep dentinal caries, abrasion, and attrition were subjected to IOPAR of the mandibular anterior teeth region to assess NCs. An increased frequency of NCs in DM (84%), HTN (66%), and periodontitis (52%) with a significant p-value was observed. Most NCs were seen beyond the root apex (72.4%). A notable association between the duration of disease and the presence of NCs in the diabetic and hypertensive cohorts (p-value 0.047 & 0.012, respectively) was observed. However, we could not establish any association between the prevalence of nutrient canals with age and gender. Our study suggested that a higher frequency of NCs on mandibular anterior IOPAR may be employed as an ancillary screening and investigative support in underlying systemic disorders.

Prevotella: An insight into its characteristics and associated virulence factors.

Prevotella species, a gram-negative obligate anaerobe, is commonly associated with human infections such as dental caries and periodontitis, as well as other conditions such as chronic osteomyelitis, bite-related infections, rheumatoid arthritis and intestinal diseases like ulcerative colitis. This generally harmless commensal possesses virulence factors such as adhesins, hemolysins, secretion systems exopolysaccharide, LPS, proteases, quorum sensing molecules and antibiotic resistance to evolve into a well-adapted pathogen capable of causing successful infection and proliferation in the host tissue. This review describes several of these virulence factors and their advantage to Prevotella spp. in causing inflammatory diseases like periodontitis. In addition, using genome analysis of Prevotella reference strains, we examined other putative virulence determinants which can provide insights as biomarkers and be the targets for effective interventions in Prevotella related diseases like periodontitis.