Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis: An Assessment of Antioxidant Levels in Plasma and Saliva.

INTRODUCTION

Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (RAS) is a common oral mucosal disorder that affects 20% of the population worldwide. Factors such as trauma, stress, genetic, hypersensitivity, nutrition, immune disturbance and hormonal imbalance may disturb the oxidant and antioxidant balance of an organism and precipitate RAS, but the relationships are poorly understood.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant status in plasma and saliva of patients with RAS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty patients with RAS and forty healthy individuals were included in the study. The levels of antioxidants such as Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione Peroxidase (GSHPx) Catalase (CAT) and Uric Acid (UA) were measured in plasma and saliva. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the two groups using independent t-test and ANOVA.

RESULTS

Decreased SOD levels were observed in plasma amongst RAS patients (p < 0.03) whereas, increased levels were observed in their saliva (p < 0.001) compared to the control group. A significant difference (p < 0.001) was noticed in GSHPx levels: RAS patients exhibited higher levels in plasma but decreased in saliva compared to the control group. CAT activities and UA levels in saliva (p = 0.015 and p < 0.001 respectively) were observed to be significantly higher in RAS patients. Within the RAS group elevated plasma SOD level (p < 0.006) was found in patients with major ulcers whereas, an increased plasma UA (p < 0.01) level was observed in patients with minor ulcers.

CONCLUSION

The non-equilibrium antioxidant levels observed in both plasma and saliva indicate the antioxidant status of the body is disturbed in patients with RAS.