Evaluation of Serum and Salivary C-Reactive Protein in Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders

Abstract

Abstract

Background: C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a marker of systemic inflammation often associated with various pathologies, including potentially malignant disorders of the oral cavity. Estimating CRP levels in both serum and saliva could offer valuable insights into the inflammatory status of oral tissues. This study aimed to assess the correlation between serum and salivary CRP levels in individuals with oral potentially malignant disorders.

Materials and Methods: Serum and saliva samples were collected from 50 participants diagnosed with oral potentially malignant disorders. CRP levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pearson correlation coefficient (r) was employed to assess the relationship between serum and salivary CRP levels. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: The mean serum CRP level was found to be 3.8 mg/L (± 1.2 mg/L), while the mean salivary CRP level was 2.5 mg/L (± 0.9 mg/L). Pearson correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between serum and salivary CRP levels (r = 0.78, p < 0.001), indicating a significant association between systemic and local inflammatory responses in oral potentially malignant disorders.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates a significant correlation between serum and salivary CRP levels in individuals with oral potentially malignant disorders, suggesting salivary CRP as a potential non-invasive biomarker for assessing systemic inflammation in oral pathologies. Further research is warranted to explore the utility of salivary CRP in early diagnosis, monitoring, and prognostication of oral potentially malignant disorders.

Keywords: C-Reactive Protein, Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders, Serum, Saliva, Inflammation, Biomarker.