Question

Drug of choice in acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis is:

• A. Metronidazole
• B. Clindamycin
• C. Tetracycline
• D. Ceftriaxone

Hint:

Metronidazole is the most effective treatment for anaerobic infections, making it the drug of choice for ANUG.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG), also known as Vincent's angina or trench mouth, is a painful infection of the gums characterized by ulceration, bleeding, and necrosis. This condition is typically caused by a combination of anaerobic bacteria, such as Fusobacterium and spirochetes like Treponema.

The drug of choice for treating ANUG is important because it addresses these specific bacterial pathogens. Let's evaluate the given options:

1. Metronidazole: This antibiotic is particularly effective against anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa. It is the preferred choice for ANUG due to its efficacy in targeting the responsible anaerobic organisms.
2. Clindamycin: While clindamycin is effective against some anaerobic bacteria, it is typically not the first choice for ANUG unless there is resistance or an allergy to Metronidazole.
3. Tetracycline: Although tetracyclines have broad antimicrobial activity, they are not specifically effective in treating the typical anaerobic pathogens of ANUG compared to Metronidazole.
4. Ceftriaxone: This is a broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic mainly used for certain bacterial infections, but not specifically effective against the anaerobic bacteria implicated in ANUG.

Therefore, the correct answer is Metronidazole, as it directly targets the anaerobic bacteria causing acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis, leading to rapid and effective relief of symptoms.