Gingival Crevicular Fluid and Placental Tissue Levels of Interleukin-17 as a Possible Marker for Preterm Labor in Patients with Chronic Periodontitis

Abstract

The events which lead to preterm birth are still not completely understood. It is a major determinant of neonatal morbidity and mortality, and has long-term, adverse health consequences. Although the etiology of preterm birth is believed to be multifactorial, the events leading to its occurrence are still not completely understood. It is still unclear whether preterm birth results from the interaction of several pathways or from the independent effects of each pathway. (Rosa2012) Although it has been asserted that periodontopathogens from oral infection can disseminate to distant body sites and thus result in the delivery of PLBW infants, results have been inconclusive. Some studies have demonstrated positive correlations, while others have not. Although these results seem contradictory, factors such as race, geographical location, and socioeconomic standards have not been adequately adjusted for. (Babalola2010)