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Endotoxin in periodontal disease — NDEB AFK MCQ

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EasyPeriodonticsEndotoxin in periodontal diseaseNDEB AFK

A patient with untreated periodontitis has inflamed pockets dominated by gram-negative anaerobic biofilm. The dentist explains that a bacterial cell wall component is driving host inflammation. What is the most likely cause/mechanism?

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Correct answer: C — Lipopolysaccharide from gram-negative bacteria

Lipopolysaccharide, or endotoxin, from gram-negative bacterial cell walls contributes to inflammatory responses in periodontal tissues. Keratin, hydroxyapatite, collagen, and amylase are host or tooth-related components rather than bacterial endotoxin. The pearl is that periodontal destruction is largely host-mediated in response to biofilm challenge.

Reference: Oral microbiology and periodontal reference texts; NDEB released item style