Comparative Evaluation of C-reactive Protein In Pregnant Women with or Without Periodontitis: A Randomized Control Trial

Abstract

Background: Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) is non-specific in nature and is seen to be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Thus we aim to compare serum CRP levels in pregnant women with and without periodontitis. 
 Methods: A total of 222 pregnant women aged between 18-45 years were recruited in study and divided into two groups Group A:- Pregnant patient without periodontitis (n=100) and Group B:- Pregnant patient with periodontitis (n=122). Different clinical parameters such as plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were evaluated. A 2 ml of blood sample was taken from antecubital vein for quantative serum CRP analysis.
 Results: The mean CRP level in Group B was found to be higher (4.22 + 2.247 mg/L) than Group A (1.55 + 0.702 mg/L). In both the groups, statistically significant and positive correlation of PI with GI and CRP level was found (p < 0.05). Similarly, in Group B, PI showed a positive correlation with PD & CAL whereas, PD showed a similar correlation with CAL & CRP level was statistically significant. (p < 0.05).
 Conclusion: Periodontitis influenced the serum CRP levels in pregnant patients representing increased inflammatory burden.