Salivary flow, amylase, and total protein in hospitalized patients with HIV infection / AIDS complications

BACKGROUND: Saliva is a complex secretion produced daily by the salivary glands. Saliva consists mainly of water, enzymes, ions and amino acids and performs several important functions in oral health. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the flow rate and concentrations of amylase and total proteins in the saliva of hospitalized patients due to AIDS complications. METHODS: Ninety-three men and women (20–64 years of age) were divided into two groups (46 HIV-infected patients and 47 controls) and had salivary flow rate and levels of amylase enzyme and total proteins evaluated. RESULT: The mean salivary flow rate was lower in individuals with HIV when compared to controls (P < 0.05). No significant difference between amylase enzyme levels and total proteins were observed in the saliva of patients with HIV infection when compared to controls. CONCLUSION: Individuals with HIV / AIDS infection (in hospital treatment) suffer no interference in levels of amylase and total salivary proteins, but they have significantly reduced salivary flow.