title: Microbiological diagnostics in periodontics.
abstract: Microbiological tests in periodontics can be of great help in determining the characteristics of a pathogenic infection, prescribing the optimal antibiotic regimen, and monitoring the effectiveness of treatment. However, they are not without potential pitfalls. Current microbiological tests vary considerably in sensitivity and specificity. A false-positive test result may lead to unnecessary therapy and patient distress. A false-negative test result may prompt the withholding of necessary therapy and the subsequent progression of disease. Also, diagnostic tests can be relatively expensive and uncomfortable for patients. This article attempts to determine the usefulness of various microbiological testing systems for the management of periodontitis patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ting
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Slots
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001421:Bacteria, Anaerobic / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D004796:Clinical Enzyme Tests; D015169:Colony Count, Microbial; D004269:DNA, Bacterial / Q000032:analysis; D006801:Humans; D007158:Immunologic Techniques; D008826:Microbial Sensitivity Tests; D008858:Microscopy, Phase-Contrast; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010518:Periodontitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000382:microbiology*; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
chemical_list: D004269:DNA, Bacterial