Immunology of chronic generalized periodontitis. 2. Estimation of total hemolytic complement (CH 50) and its fractions C3 and C4.

The total hemolytic complement activity (CH50) and its fractions C3 and C4 were determined in forty patients with chronic generalized periodontitis (CGP). The values were compared with an equal number of age and sex matched periodontally healthy controls. Total hemolytic complement activity was expressed as number of CH50 units per ml of blood, while C3 and C4 levels were assessed by radial immunodiffusion and expressed as mg%. The observations showed a significant increase in CH50, C3 and C4 levels in the sera of patients with CGP. The study reveals the role of complement system in the pathogenesis of chronic generalized periodontitis.