ABSTRACT
Background and Objective: Dental erosion is a condition that results from exposure of the enamel and dentin to non-bacterial acids of extrinsic and intrinsic origin, causing mineral loss on the surface of the tooth. Occupational exposure to sulfuric acid fumes has been described in association with dental erosion in battery manufacturing industry workers. Hence, this study aimed to assess the dental erosion among battery factory workers in HBL Power Systems Ltd, Hyderabad. Materials and Methods: The sample consisted of 90 battery factory workers (62 males and 28 females). Demographic data with regard to age, gender, and length of exposure were recorded. Clinical examination was done to assess dental erosion using the tooth wear index given by Smith and Knight. Data were statistically analyzed by using Fisher exact test. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among 90 workers examined, 43.3% showed prevalence of erosion with higher occurrence rate in females (54%) than males (38.7%). 66.6% of affected workers had erosion score of 1, and 33.4% showed erosion score of 2 and 3. We also observed statistically significant highest prevalence and increased severity of dental erosion in workers with prolonged duration of employment (>11 years). Conclusion: The present study revealed increased prevalence of dental erosion among battery factory workers. Hence, it highlights the importance of protective measures with efficient surveillance and monitoring in the workplace environment.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Human chorionic gonadotropin-ß (hCGß) is a hormone glycoprotein usually secreted by trophoblastic cells in early pregnancy and helps in growth and development of the embryo. While many trophoblastic and nontrophoblastic malignancies express elevated levels of hCGß in serum, increased immunohistochemical reactivity has also been reported in malignant and aggressive tumors, thus serving as a marker. As limited studies exist on tumors of the oral- and para-oral region, it prompted us to observe the immunohistochemical expression of hCGß in salivary gland tumors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 21 cases of salivary gland tumors - 16 cases of mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC), adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), and five cases of pleomorphic adenoma - were included in the study. The sections were subjected to immunohistochemical procedures using hCGß antigen. The degree of intensity and distribution of hCGß immunostaining was assessed. RESULTS: One case of each (12.5%) MEC and ACC showed positive staining, and no staining was observed in the pleomorphic adenoma. CONCLUSION: The presence of hCGß positive tumor cells appears to potentially reflect the aggressive behavior of MEC and ACC.
