Relationship Between Periodontal Disease and Systemic Diseases in Non-Human Primates.

BACKGROUND

Periodontal disease in non-human primates (NHPs) has gained relevance due to its similarities with human pathology and its potential to influence systemic health. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between periodontal disease and the development of systemic conditions in NHPs, aiming to understand the mechanisms involved and their clinical significance.

METHODS

An integrative literature review was conducted using the PICO strategy, including observational studies, experimental research, and integrative reviews that examined periodontal disease in NHPs and its association with systemic diseases.

RESULTS

A total of eleven studies were analyzed, revealing consistent associations between periodontal disease and systemic conditions such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. The reviewed studies identified inflammatory pathways, including elevated cytokines, acute-phase proteins and immune responses, as key mediators linking periodontal disease to systemic dysfunction. Oral pathogens and chronic inflammation were shown to impact distant organs, suggesting a broader role of oral health in systemic disease.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings support the hypothesis that periodontal disease in NHPs contributes to systemic disease progression and is not merely a localized condition.