Detection and quantification of Fusobacterium nucleatum and Porphyromonas gingivalis in salivary samples of gutka and non-gutka users- 'A pilot study'.

Context: Gutka, a form of smokeless tobacco, is widely consumed and has been associated with adverse oral health effects, including changes in the oral microbiome. Fusobacterium nucleatum and Porphyromonas gingivalis are prominent oral pathogens linked to periodontal diseases and oral carcinogenesis. The study aims to understand the microbial profile of gutka users by analysing salivary samples.

Methods and material: This pilot study was conducted on 20 participants (Healthy individuals, gutka users with premalignant lesion and frank cancer). Unstimulated saliva samples were collected under aseptic conditions. Samples were cultured on selective media for F. nucleatum and P. gingivalis under anaerobic conditions. Colony morphology was used to identify and quantify the isolates. Statistical analysis compared the bacterial counts between the two groups. Statistical analysis T-tests and ANOVA were used.

Results: Both F. nucleatum and P. gingivalis were isolated in higher proportions among gutka users. The mean colony-forming unit (CFU) count of F. nucleatum was significantly higher in gutka users compared to non-users. Similarly, P. gingivalis counts were elevated in gutka users CFU/ml) compared to non-users. The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Gutka consumption is associated with increased salivary levels of Fusobacterium nucleatum and Porphyromonas gingivalis. These findings emphasize the role of smokeless tobacco in altering the oral microbiome and its potential contribution to oral diseases.