Desquamative Gingivitis and the Oral Microbiome: Insights into Immune–Microbial Interactions in Mucosal Inflammation

Špiljak, Bruno; Andabak Rogulj, Ana; Lončar Brzak, Božana; Brailo, Vlaho; Škrinjar, Ivana; Ozretić, Petar; Vidović Juras, Danica (2025) Desquamative Gingivitis and the Oral Microbiome: Insights into Immune–Microbial Interactions in Mucosal Inflammation. Dentistry Journal, 13 (11). ISSN 2304-6767

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Official URL: https://www.mdpi.com/2304-6767/13/11/541

Abstract

Desquamative gingivitis (DG) is a clinical presentation characterized by erythema, epithelial desquamation, and mucosal fragility, commonly associated with immune-mediated diseases such as oral lichen planus (OLP), mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP), and pemphigus vulgaris (PV). While traditionally viewed as a manifestation of immune dysregulation, growing evidence suggests that the oral microbiome may modulate disease onset, persistence, and severity. This review summarizes current knowledge on the oral microbiota in DG and its underlying diseases, explores mechanistic links between dysbiosis and immune activation, and discusses clinical and research implications. A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed and Scopus, focusing on studies analyzing the oral microbiome in OLP, MMP, and PV. Emphasis was placed on molecular microbiology techniques, immune profiling, and functional or longitudinal approaches. In OLP, microbial dysbiosis is consistently reported, including reduced diversity and increased abundance of pro-inflammatory genera such as Fusobacterium, Prevotella, and Capnocytophaga. These shifts correlate with epithelial barrier disruption and inflammatory cytokine production. Although data on MMP and PV are limited, early findings suggest microbial involvement in sustaining inflammation, delaying healing, and possibly amplifying autoimmune responses. Dysbiosis may activate Toll-like receptors, skew T cell responses, and contribute to the breakdown of immune tolerance. DG may reflect a dynamic interplay between immune mechanisms and microbial ecology. While evidence is strongest for OLP, preliminary data suggest broader microbial contributions across DG-associated diseases. Microbiome-informed approaches could enhance diagnostic accuracy and support the development of adjunctive therapies.

Item Type:

Article

Uncontrolled Keywords:

desquamative gingivitis; dysbiosis; immune–microbial interactions; mucosal immunity; mucous membrane pemphigoid; oral lichen planus; oral microbiome; oral mucosal diseases; pemphigus vulgaris

Subjects:

BIOMEDICINE AND HEALTHCARE > Dental Medicine > Oral Medicine

Divisions:

Division of Molecular Medicine

Projects: