Oral Status and Microbial Profile of HIV+ Younger Individuals Infected by Vertical Transmission

Objectives: This cross sectional study evaluated the oral status and microbiota of HIV+ adolescents and young adults infected by vertical transmission.
Methods: 34 HIV+ and 36 HIV-youngsters (14–24 years of age) were selected. Oral examination including evaluation of oral lesions, periodontal parameters, and caries was performed. HIV-related data were obtained from medical records. Subgingival biofilm was obtained and the microbial composition determined by checkerboard. Differences between groups were sought by Chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests. Associations among parameters were evaluated by Spearman correlation analysis.
Results: 91.2% of the HIV+ youngsters were under HAART, but 55% had AIDS. TCD4 levels (674.8±359 mm³) were relatively normal, however high viral load was detected (46.407±154.051 copies/mL). HIV+ youngsters showed significantly more periodontal destruction and inflammation than HIV- individuals (p<0.05). 89.5% of the species evaluated in the subgingival biofilm were detected in higher frequency and levels in the HIV+ group, but few significant differences were observed between groups (p<0.0013).
Conclusions: HIV+ adolescents and young adults infected by vertical transmission presented more periodontal destruction and inflammation, and greater prevalence and counts of oral microorganisms and opportunists compared to HIV- youngsters.