Comparative Evaluation of Salivary Interleukin-8 Levels in Diabetics, Hypertensives and Smokers with Chronic Periodontitis

Background: Cytokines are pivotal to the pathogenesis of periodontal disease and may be used as markers in diagnosis. Systemic diseases and smoking are considered risk factors that have been associated with periodontal disease progression. Cytokine production may also be influenced by smoking and systemic diseases leading to an imbalance that disturbs the host-parasite relationship. Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine and compare the levels of salivary IL-8 in diabetics, smokers and hypertensive patients with chronic periodontitis. Materials and method: A total of 80 patients with chronic periodontitis were included in the study. They were divided into four groups:20 controls, 20 diabetics, 20 hypertensives and 20 smokers. Unstimulated saliva samples were collected at first visit and IL-8 levels were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: It was found that as compared to control group, diabetic group presented with higher levels of IL-8 whereas hypertensive and smoker groups presented with lower levels of IL-8. After statistical analysis it was found that this alteration was significant in smokers group only. Conclusion: It can be concluded from the study that the levels of inflammatory biomarkers in chronic periodontitis patients are altered with systemic factors.