Acute necrotizing ulcerative periodontitis (ANUP) is a rare, but severe, form of periodontal disease that is caused by a bacterial infection. The bacteria responsible for causing ANUP is a gram-negative, anaerobic, rod-shaped bacterium called Fusobacterium nucleatum. This bacterium has been found to be involved in a variety of periodontal diseases, including ANUP.
F. nucleatum is believed to be the primary causative agent of ANUP, although other bacteria may also play a role. This bacterium has been found to be associated with a wide range of periodontal diseases, including ANUP. It is highly infectious and can be spread through contact with saliva, dental instruments, and other sources of contamination.
F. nucleatum is believed to cause ANUP by releasing toxins and enzymes that damage the gums and surrounding tissue. This damage can lead to severe inflammation, ulcers, and necrosis of the gums. It can also cause pain, swelling, and bleeding of the gums.
Due to the severe nature of ANUP, it is important that it is detected and treated as soon as possible. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to kill the F. nucleatum bacteria and reduce the inflammation. In addition, other treatments such as scaling and root planing may be necessary to remove plaque and calculus and reduce the risk of further infection.