RESUMO
Because systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and periodontal disease share some pathogenetic similarities, a relationship between the two diseases might exist. This study aimed to assess SLE patients for the possible existence of a relationship between periodontal status and SLE disease activity. Fiveteen SLE patients had their disease activity index (SLEDAI), c-reative protein (CRP) serum levels and periodontal status determined. SLEDAI scores ranged from 0 to 11 and the CRP levels from 0.6 mg/l to 11.2 mg/l. The mean frequencies of periodontal sites with bleeding on probing and visible bacterial plaque were 8.79% (± 7.48) and 22.70% (± 26.32), respectively. The mean frequencies of sites with probing depths below 4 mm, between 4 and 6 mm and above 6 mm were 94.4% (± 10.87), 5.22% (± 10.07) and 0.38% (±0.92), respectively. Statistical analysis showed significant correlation between the frequency of sites with visible bacterial plaque and C3 serum levels. Although not statistically significant, correlations between the periodontal condition with SLEDAI scores and CRP serum levels were found. This study suggests that there is a relationship between periodontal status and SLE disease activity and between periodontal status and CRP serum levels.