How is Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis diagnosed?
See how Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis is diagnosed. Which specialists are essential to meet, what tests are needed and other useful information for the diagnosis of Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG), also known as "trench mouth," is a severe gum infection that can cause painful ulcers and inflammation in the gums. Diagnosing ANUG involves a combination of clinical examination, medical history assessment, and laboratory tests.
Clinical Examination: A dentist or periodontist will visually examine the patient's mouth to look for characteristic signs and symptoms of ANUG. These may include:
- Painful gums: ANUG often causes severe gum pain, especially while eating or brushing.
- Ulcers and sores: The gums may have grayish pseudomembranes (a layer of dead tissue) and painful ulcers.
- Swollen and bleeding gums: The gums may appear red, swollen, and bleed easily.
- Bad breath: ANUG can cause persistent bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth.
- Enlarged lymph nodes: In some cases, the lymph nodes in the neck may become swollen and tender.
Medical History Assessment: The dentist will ask the patient about their symptoms, oral hygiene practices, and any recent illnesses or stressors. ANUG is often associated with poor oral hygiene, smoking, stress, and a weakened immune system. Providing accurate information about these factors can help in the diagnosis.
Laboratory Tests: In some cases, the dentist may take samples from the gums to confirm the diagnosis. These samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory tests may include:
- Microbiological analysis: The samples are examined under a microscope to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection. ANUG is commonly associated with the overgrowth of certain bacteria, such as Fusobacterium spp. and Prevotella intermedia.
- PCR testing: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests can detect the presence of specific bacterial DNA in the samples, providing a more accurate identification of the causative bacteria.
Once the diagnosis of ANUG is confirmed, appropriate treatment can be initiated. It is important to seek dental care promptly if you suspect you have ANUG, as early intervention can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
