ANUG
Also written as: ANUG — Acute Necrotising Ulcerative Gingivitis
Acronym for Acute Necrotising Ulcerative Gingivitis, a painful, rapidly destructive bacterial infection of the gingival tissues characterised by necrosis of the interdental papillae, bleeding, and a characteristic foetor oris.
Full Definition
ANUG is caused by a synergistic infection involving fusiform bacteria and spirochaetes, particularly in the setting of stress, malnutrition, or immune compromise. The hallmark clinical findings are 'punched-out' necrotic interdental papillae, spontaneous bleeding, and severe halitosis. Editors must recognize this acronym in clinical case reports, periodontal literature, and global health documents. It should be distinguished from its more severe progression, necrotising ulcerative periodontitis (NUP), and from noma (cancrum oris). On first use, the full form should appear before the acronym.
Usage
Usage note: Expand on first use as 'acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG).' Distinguish from NUP (necrotising ulcerative periodontitis), which involves bone loss. 'Trench mouth' and 'Vincent's angina' are historical synonyms acceptable in lay or historical contexts only.
In Context
- "The case report described a patient presenting with classical ANUG: necrotic papillae, profuse bleeding, and foetor oris." — Case report
- "The editor noted that the author had used 'ANUG' without prior expansion and inserted the full form 'acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis' at first mention." — Journal manuscript copy-editing