Comparison of neutrophil functions in diabetic and healthy subjects with chronic generalized periodontitis

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus is a systemic condition that has long been associated with an increased risk and severity of periodontal disease. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) play a key role in the maintenance of gingival and periodontal health. Reduced PMN function has been found in patients with diabetes. AIM: The objective of this study was to evaluate PMN functions in 15 diabetic patients with chronic generalized periodontitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Chemotaxis, superoxide production, phagocytosis and killing of Porphyromonas gingivalis by diabetic PMNs were evaluated relative to healthy and matched controls. RESULTS: These analyses revealed a significant (P < 0.01) depression in the number of diabetic PMNs migrating along an fMLP gradient. In addition, a significant (P < 0.01) enhancement of diabetic PMN superoxide production was observed. Phagocytosis (P < 0.05) and killing by diabetic PMN of P. gingivalis was also impaired significantly (P < 0.01).