LIPID PROFILE AND MARKER OF INFLAMMATION IN CHRONIC PERIODONTITIS

Abstract

Periodontal infections are the most important oral health burdens faced by both developed and developing countries of the world. These, predominantly gram negative infections cause systemic inflammation and have been implicated in the development of hyperlipidaemia, which is an important risk factor for development of cardiovascular diseases. However, some studies in recent times have found contradictory results. In this cross-sectional study, we measured levels of C - Reactive Protein (CRP) and lipid profile. We found that as compared to controls, patients with chronic periodontitis had higher mean CRP levels, total cholesterol, serum triglycerides and lower HDL cholesterol. Results of this study supports the hypothesis that localized inflammation, such as that in periodontitis, may result in systemic inflammation which may play an important role in the pathogenesis of many adverse systemic conditions such as atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications.