Comparison of sample collection methods for the PCR detection of oral anaerobic pathogens.
OBJECTIVE
To provide evidence that DNA-PCR diagnostics of oral pathogens based on standard sample collection by paper point insertion from the depth of the periodontal pocket can be replaced by a novel non-invasive collection method based on swab technique from the gingiva.


RESULTS
In this study we compared the results from two collection methods performed in 35 patients with chronic adult periodontitis. Statistical analysis showed a highly significant association of diagnostic results between both collection techniques.


CONCLUSIONS
The Pocket-out method represents a reliable alternative to the standard collection technique for PCR diagnosis of oral pathogens.


CONCLUSIONS
Due to its simplicity and non-invasiveness, the Pocket-out collection could be performed in any physician office, or even by the patient himself. With respect to the putative association between periodontal disease and various systemic illnesses, this method could be integrated with various screening programs of oral pathogens.
Smola
S F
SF
Department of Cytogenetics, Gregor Mendel Laboratories for Human Genetics, Wegenerstrasse 15, D-89231 Neu-Ulm, Germany.
Rettenberger
G
G
Simmet
Th
T
Burysek
L
L
D000328:Adult; D001421:Bacteria, Anaerobic / Q000145:classification / Q000235:genetics / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D002908:Chronic Disease; D004269:DNA, Bacterial / Q000032:analysis / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D005881:Gingiva / Q000382:microbiology; D006801:Humans; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D009055:Mouth / Q000382:microbiology; D010514:Periodontal Pocket / Q000175:diagnosis; D010518:Periodontitis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000473:pathology; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction / Q000379:methods*; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000379:methods*
D004269:DNA, Bacterial