Estimation of Proinflammatory Factors in the Saliva of Adult Patients with Cystic Fibrosis and Dental Caries

Abstract

Introduction: The available literature lacks data regarding the levels of resistin, lysozyme, lactoferrin, α-amylase activity, pH, and saliva buffer capacity, as well as oral health and hygiene in the group of adult patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). The aim of the research was to assess the selected saliva parameters in patients diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. Materials and methods: Examined group was composed of 40 patients diagnosed with CF, while the control group of 40 healthy individuals. Both groups underwent the same scheme of the assessment (DMT index, salivary pH, buffer capacity, analysis of total sialic acid, total protein estimation, lysozyme levels estimation, lactofferin levels measurement, α-amylase activity, estimation of the levels of resistin and TNF-α). Results: In the examined group, there were higher values of decayed teeth as well as values of sialic acid, total protein, lactoferrin, α-amylase, and TNF-α. However, mean lysozyme, and resistin levels, as well as pH and buffer capacity of the saliva, were lower. Conclusions: New diagnostic methods, including the evaluation of selected salivary biochemical parameters, may indicate the existence of factors predisposing to severe tooth decay in the study group. Appropriate preventive treatment to combat dental caries in adult patients with CF will significantly improve their comfort and life expectancy.

Effect of Low Amperage Electric Current on Staphylococcus Aureus—Strategy for Combating Bacterial Biofilms Formation on Dental Implants in Cystic Fibrosis Patients, In Vitro Study

“…The degree of microbial colonization of the oral cavity may result in the development of stomatitis, gingivitis and periodontitis, and dental plaque and the formation of tooth and implant biofilms that initiate periodontal disease and caries. There have been various reports of dental conditions in individuals with CF, most of which relate to pediatric patients [ 14 ]. Despite the strong tendency for dental calculus formation, individuals with CF are less likely to get gingivitis [ 15 ].…”

Effects of cystic fibrosis on the oral cavity

“…The second hypothesis that explains the increase in salivary proteins in patients with CF is the fact that it could be associated with an alteration of the integrity of the oral and gingival mucosa, and therefore with an increase in salivary albumins [46]. Authors have confirmed that exacerbation of systemic inflammation in CF leads to increased levels of specific inflammatory proteins in saliva [45].…”

“…Their levels may depend on circadian rhythm, hormones, mental disorders or oral hygiene. Several authors have hypothesized that there is a regulatory mechanism for salivary protein levels [45].…”

“…Studies have determined that there is a significant decrease in pH values compared to healthy controls [45], and a simultaneous decrease in its buffering potential responsible for acid-alkaline balance [11] [7] [20]. However, there is also a study reporting significantly higher mean pH values and buffering capacity.…”

“…According to data in the literature, patients have reduced phosphate buffer activity and unchanged bicarbonate buffer activity [45]. The ability of saliva to buffer acids is essential for maintaining pH values in the oral environment.…”