Exodontia associated bacteremia in horses characterized by next generation sequencing.

This research investigates the presence of bacteria in the blood (bacteremia) following tooth extraction in horses, using next-generation sequencing. The study revealed that bacteremia did occur as a result of dental surgery, with bacteria from the oral cavity entering the bloodstream and being detectable even an hour after surgery.

Approach and Methodology

• The research was conducted as a prospective clinical study involving 29 adult horses with dental disease. These horses underwent dental extractions, which were typical procedures especially for older horses.
• Next-generation sequencing, specifically based on bacterial 16S rRNA, was used to characterize the circulating blood microbiome before and an hour after tooth extraction.
• This method of sequencing allows for a deeper and more precise analysis of bacterial diversity by targeting the 16S rRNA gene, a prevalent gene in bacteria.

Comparison of Blood and Oral Microbiomes

• Gene sequencing results from the blood microbiome, obtained pre and post-extraction, were compared with results from gingival (gum) swab samples taken prior to extraction at the location of the diseased tooth.
• This comparison was performed to determine whether any bacteria present in the blood following dental surgery originated from the oral cavity.

Findings and Implications

• The researchers discovered the presence of bacteremia in horses following tooth extraction. The bacteremia was associated with oral bacteria which had relocated or translocated into the bloodstream following the surgery.
• Even an hour post-surgery, traces of bacteremia were still evident in some cases. This shows the risk of dental procedures leading to infections in other parts of the body, such as valvular endocarditis (heart valve inflammation).
• The study underscores the need to recognize bacteremia resulting from dental surgery as a health risk, particularly in older and immunocompromised horses, and possibly other animals or humans as well.
• This study also opens up new areas of research into the roles played by oral bacteria in causing or contributing to diseases such as diabetes, respiratory disorders, cardiovascular disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.