Alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase in human gingival fluid and its relation to gingival inflammation

ABSTRACT

Periodontal inflammation is accompanied by presence of fluid in the gingival sulcus, and the amount of fluid varies according to the severity of inflammation. Alkaline phosphatase is known to be present in periodontal tissues and is normally confined to eucocytes; an increase in the activity of this enzyme has been shown by histochemical methods in inflamed gingiva. The main source of acid phosphatase in the crevicular area are probably the PMNS and desqaumating epithelial cells and the activity of this enzyme has often been associated with connective tissue metabolism. The aim of this study is to determine the activity of these enzymes in varying severity of gingival inflammation,15 patients were selected for this study; gingival fluids were collected with micropipettes. Assessment of the gingival status was made according to the Gingival Index [GI] of Loe And Silness. Then patients divided into 3 groups. Alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase was measured by colorimetric technique. Results demonstrated increase of enzymes activity with severity of gingival inflammation. Further investigation is needed to demonstrate the roles and activity of these enzymes in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease