Vincent angina

Vincent's angina, also known as trench mouth or acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG), is a type of gingivitis that is characterized by the sudden onset of severe pain, foul breath, and bleeding and ulceration of the gums. It is named after Henri Vincent, a French physician who first described the condition in 1894.

Etiology

Vincent's angina is caused by a synergistic infection of the mouth by the bacteria Spirochaeta and Fusobacterium, which are both normal inhabitants of the mouth. These bacteria become pathogenic when the balance of the normal oral flora is disturbed, often due to poor oral hygiene, stress, or immunosuppression.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of Vincent's angina are severe pain in the mouth, foul breath, and bleeding and ulceration of the gums. Other symptoms may include fever, malaise, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the throat and tonsils, causing difficulty swallowing and breathing.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Vincent's angina is based on the clinical presentation and a microscopic examination of a sample of the affected gum tissue, which will show the characteristic 'fusospirochetal' bacteria.

Treatment

Treatment for Vincent's angina involves improving oral hygiene, using antiseptic mouthwashes, and taking antibiotics to kill the bacteria. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required, and surgery may be necessary to remove dead tissue.

Prevention

Prevention of Vincent's angina involves maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Avoiding stress and maintaining a healthy immune system can also help prevent the condition.

See also

• Gingivitis
• Periodontitis
• Oral hygiene
• Antibiotics