Aggressive Periodontitis, Localized, Severe (K05.213)

Name of the Condition

• Common name: Aggressive periodontitis
• Medical term: Localized Aggressive Periodontitis (LAP)

Summary

Localized aggressive periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease characterized by rapid destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth, typically occurring in otherwise healthy individuals. It primarily affects the first molars and incisors.

Causes

The exact cause is not well understood, but aggressive periodontitis is thought to have a genetic predisposition. It involves a hyper-responsive immune reaction to plaque bacteria.

Risk Factors

• Genetic predisposition
• Smoking
• Poor oral hygiene
• Specific bacterial infection (primarily Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans)

Symptoms

• Severe gum inflammation in a localized area (especially around first molars and incisors)
• Rapid attachment loss and bone destruction
• Possible tooth mobility
• Pus between gums and teeth
• Minimal plaque compared to periodontal destruction

Diagnosis

• Clinical examination observing attachment loss, bone destruction
• Radiographic imaging to assess bone loss
• Microbial testing to identify specific bacteria
• Medical history review to rule out systemic conditions

Treatment Options

• Scaling and root planing to remove dental plaque and calculus
• Antibiotic therapy targeting specific bacteria
• Periodontal surgery for regenerating lost bone and tissue
• Regular maintenance therapy to prevent recurrences

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With proper treatment and maintenance, disease progression can be halted, but ongoing monitoring is crucial to prevent recurrence. Regular follow-ups with periodontal assessments are recommended.

Complications

• Tooth loss due to rapid attachment and bone loss
• Increased susceptibility to other periodontal infections if untreated
• Potential impact on nutritional intake and overall oral health

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing
• Regular dental checkups for monitoring and early detection
• Quit smoking to reduce risk

When to Seek Professional Help

• Noticeable gum inflammation
• Rapid loss of gum tissue around teeth
• Tooth mobility or bad taste/smell from the mouth
• Any sign of pus in the gums

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Periodontology (perio.org)
• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (nidcr.nih.gov)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Confirm diagnosis specificity as "localized" and "severe" for accurate coding.
• Verify supporting clinical documentation to accurately code K05.213.
• Avoid coding generalized periodontitis if documentation specifies localized.