Neutrophil function and oral disease.

The pathological sequela of reduced neutrophil function in the oral cavity and the mechanisms behind dysfunction have added to our understanding of infectious diseases. Numerous examples have been given, and the overriding conclusion must be that any impairment of neutrophil function will lead to some degree of increased susceptibility to infection. Perhaps the tissue most sensitive to pathological changes in the oral cavity is the periodontium. In cases of severe neutrophil dysfunction, there is severe periodontal breakdown, but also in cases of "mild" neutrophil dysfunction, where there is no other infection, such as in individuals with LJP, there is severe periodontal breakdown. The molecular basis of neutrophil dysfunction is beginning to be understood in individuals with LJP, LAD, CGD, and AIDS. It is our hope that further research in this area will help to delineate the pathogenesis of these and other oral diseases.