Objectives: Elevated level of C-reactive protein (CRP) and decreased plasma adiponectin are associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, recent observation suggested that adiponectin and tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a) supressed each other's production. Scince periodontal disease has been suggested to act as a risk factor for atherosclerosis, we examined the effect of anti-microbial periodontal treatment on CRP, adiponectin, and TNF-a levels in serum. Methods: Fifteen adult patients suffering from advanced periodontitis, who had various systemic conditions at high risk for atherosclerosis, were enrolled in the study with informed consent. Patients were non-surgically treated with local minocycline administration (Periocline, Sunster Inc, Osaka, Japan) in every periodontal pocket around all existing teeth and supragingival scaling once a week for one month. Befor and after the therapy, CRP, adiponectin, and TNF-a levels were measured. Results: Both CRP and TNF-a significantly decreased by the treatment (p<0.01 and p<0.03, respectively), while adiponectin level did not change significantly. Conclusions: Periodontal treatment is effective in reducting CRP and TNF-a value, mechanisms independent of adiponectin. Thus, the results indicate that periodontal inflammation up-regulate CRP and TNF-a, although still for the most part in the healty reference range. Elevated level of CRP and TNF-a might be associated with increased risk for future development of atherosclerosis in periodontal patients.

Back to the Periodontal Research - Therapy Program
Back to the 81st General Session of the International Association for Dental Research (June 25-28, 2003)

Top Level Search