Nifedipine-induced histological changes in the parotid glands of hypertensive rats

Abstract

Nifedipine is a widely used anti-anginal and anti-hypertensive agent. It is associated with significant gingival changes attributed more to collagen hyperplasia than to enhancement of protein synthesis. We investigated the influence of nifedipine on morphological changes in the parotid glands of rats in a model of hypertension. Twenty-eight male Wistar rats (8-10 weeks; 200 ± 15 g) were divided into four groups (A-D). Hypertension was induced by surgical means in groups C and D. Animals in groups B and D were treated with nifedipine (0.85 mg/kg) via a gastroesophageal catheter the day after surgery (experimental day-1) for 2 weeks. A significant difference was observed between the control group and nifedipine group and between the control group and hypertension group with regard to the weight of the parotid gland and its surface area. Histological findings demonstrated changes in the parotid glands of hypertensive animals with mild vessel dilatation and infiltration of inflammatory cells. These histological findings seemed to be due more to changes in venous function than to alterations in gland architecture.

Review: Differential Diagnosis of Drug-Induced Gingival Hyperplasia and Other Oral Lesions

“…Another study was performed in order to observe the histological changes generated by Nifedipine in hypertensive animals. Findings have shown alterations in the parotid glands, together with a mild dilation of the vessels and infiltration of inflammatory cells [8].…”

Experimental Animal Model Systems for Understanding Salivary Secretory Disorders

“…Although the therapeutic target should be centered on histopathologic impairment the underlying salivary dysfunction, almost all clinical therapies are helpful for only temporary symptomatic relief without recovery of histofunction [ 8 ]. Accordingly, a number of experimental animal models have been developed to clarify the detailed mechanisms underlying the initiation, progression, and recovery in salivary pathologies [ 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 ]. These models were created by the application of excessive irradiation, radioisotope, ductal ligation, inflammogens, mechanical injury, medications, and genetic modifications [ 6 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 ].…”