Periodontal Regeneration with Enamel Matrix Derivative in the Management of Generalized Aggressive Periodontitis: A Case Report with 11-Year Follow-up and Literature Review

OBJECTIVES: Aggressive periodontitis (AgP) represents an uncommon but rapidly advanced inflammatory process, which involves the destruction of periodontal tissues. This study aimed to report a case of generalized AgP (GAgP), where the treatment approach consists of the utilization of the full-mouth disinfection protocol (FMDP) in conjunction with flap curettage and regenerative appliance of enamel matrix derivatives (EMDs). The associated literature was also reviewed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 19-year-old female patient was diagnosed with GAgP. The treatment was initiated with FMDP and administration of antibiotics. Afterward, open flap debridement was performed, and EMD was selected as the regenerative material for the reconstruction of the periodontal defects. Over an 11-year period and during all the phases of the treatment, the outcomes were regularly evaluated with clinical measurements and radiographic controls. RESULTS: The 11-year results demonstrated no recurrence of disease, and the patient's periodontal health exhibited evident improvement. Overall, the pocket depths presented satisfactory reduction while the clinical attachment loss (CAL) was improved. Both our limited experience and available literature data revealed that the use of EMD in AgP treatment contributes to bone fill of the intrabony defects as well as regeneration of the destructed periodontal apparatus. CONCLUSIONS: Although the outcomes of this treatment approach have not been widely evaluated, it seems that the use of EMD may be an effective means of periodontal regeneration in patients with GAgP. Additional prospective studies with adequate number of GAgP patients are essential to thoroughly assess the effectiveness of this approach.