Abstract

ROJAS-MORALES, Thais et al. “Modificaciones en las UFC de estreptococos mutans, lactobacilos  y de la capacidad amortiguadora de la saliva como indicadores de riesgo a la caries dental en niños y adolescentes que reciben quimioterapia: Estudio piloto”. Acta odontol. venez [online]. 2006, vol.44, n.3, pp.337-341. ISSN 0001-6365.

OBJETIVE: To determine the modifications of streptococci mutans, lactobacillus and salivary buffer capacity as risk indicators of dental caries in children and adolescents undergoing chemotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS:  The sample comprised 10 patients between 5 and 15 years of age, diagnosed with Leukemia, Lymphomas or Neuroblastomas. In order to register the presence or absence of dental caries, a clinical evaluation was included, in accordance with WHO/PHO criteria.  Microbiological evaluation and saliva buffering capacity were carried out before and after the chemotherapeutic treatment, using the VIVADENT ® CRT Bacteria and CRT Buffer. RESULTS:  These showed a significant increase (p< 0.05) in Mutans Streptococci CFU. No significant modifications in Lactobacilli and buffering capacity were observed. CONCLUSION: The modifications in Mutans Streptococci CFU suggest the influence of cytostatic agents.

Keywords : Mutans Streptococci; Lactobacillus; Saliva Buffer Capacity; Chemotherapy.