Trench mouth overview
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief:
Overview
Trench mouth is a polymicrobial infection of the gums leading to inflammation, bleeding, deep ulceration, necrotic gum tissue, and possibly fever.
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Causative organisms include anaerobes such as Bacteroides and Fusobacterium as well as spirochetes (Borrelia and Treponema spp.). The condition is caused by an overpopulation of established mouth bacteria due to a number of interacting factors such as poor hygiene, poor diet, smoking, other infections.
Differentiating Trench Mouth from Other Diseases
Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis is the most important differential diagnosis of trench mouth. Further, differentiating necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (NUG) from acute herpetic gingivostomatitis is also necessary.
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Screening
Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis
Natural History
Complications
Prognosis
Diagnosis
Diagnostic Criteria
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
There may be a gray film caused by broken down (decomposed) gum tissue. Occasionally, there may be fever and swollen lymph nodes of the head and neck. This disease may also be tested for by a throat swab culture.
Imaging Findings
Electrocardiogram
X Ray
Dental x-rays or x-rays of the face may be done to determine how severe the infection is and how much tissue has been destroyed.