ABSTRACT
Objective: To provide theoretical basis and experimental evidence for diagnosis and therapy of dental pulp indirect injuries by gunshot wounds. Methods: The levels of IL 8 in different stages were studied using immunohistochemical method to evaluate its functions in inflammation process of dental pulps. Results: IL 8 expression was detected by immunohistochemical assay in postwound conditions. The results showed that positive staining of IL 8 was observed predominantly on infiltrating inflammatory cells, vascular endothelial cells and some fibroblasts, which was consistent with the recruitment and activation of inflammatory cells, and with the severity duration of pulpal tissue injury and response. Conclusion: These results indicate that IL 8 is involved in regulating physiologic responses of dental pulp injuries in maxillofacial trauma by a projectile. [