Impact of apical periodontitis on C-reactive protein levels in blood samples in healthy individuals. Pilot study

The aim of the study was to determine whether the presence of apical periodontitis in healthy individuals has an effect on overall health, especially on inflammation markers such as C- reactive protein (CRP). The study design was a cross-sectional pilot study. Inclusion criteria were healthy adults with symptomatic or asymptomatic apical periodontitis from emergency or planned visits in RSU Library. Exclusion criteria: individuals with systemic diseases, smokers, patients with marginal periodontitis, patients with obesity, pregnant patients. The control group consisted of healthy adult volunteers without apical periodontitis. RSU Research Ethics Committee allowance was received. Written consent was obtained from every patient. Information about patients was received from questionnaires about general health. Apical periodontitis was diagnosed clinically and using x-rays. Periodontal status was detected measuring bleeding and probing depth. Blood samples were collected by the nurses and delivered to laboratory to detect CRP levels. Mean CRP values were calculated for both groups by using the R software. Twelve blood samples were collected. Mean age was 37 (range 21- 57). In the apical periodontitis group (n=8) CRP levels were in normal range(0-5mg/L), except only patient with acute apical abscess had CRP level above normal range (11,76mg/L). All patients without apical periodontitis (n=4) had normal CRP levels (0-5mg/L). Mean CRP value in group with AP is 2.45±3.88. Mean CRP value in control group is 0.13±0.23. Values are not statistically different (p=0.122). All patients with AP, except one with acute apical abscess, had normal CRP levels. Mean CRP value was higher in AP group than in control group. Further research is needed on patients with acute apical abscess. More inflammation markers should be detected in the same manner.