C-reactive protein and peripheral blood in apical periodontitis: a pilot study

ABSTRACT

C-reactive protein [CRP] is a potential marker of cardiovascular risk and has been recently associated with periodontal disease. The purpose of this study was to determine CRP and peripheral blood markers in patients with apical periodontitis. CRP levels were analyzed in 28 apical periodontitis patients and 24 healthy controls. Also, hemoglobin, red blood cell count [RBC], leukocyte cell count [WBC total and differential] and platelet count were estimated. Total WBC, neutrophil and platelet counts and CRP levels were raised in periodontitis patients as compared to controls [p<0.01]. RBC count and hemoglobin were lowered in periodontitis as compared to controls [p<0.01]. These findings indicate towards a possible role of CRP in periodontitis. These findings suggest an important role of CRP in development of periodontitis. Routinel screening for CRP in periodontitis patients might be an important tool to prevent heart disease