Study Reveals Altered Salivary Parameters and Dental Caries in People Living with HIV on ART

TUNISIA: In a cross-sectional study conducted in Monastir, Tunisia, researchers explored the relationship between salivary biochemical parameters and dental caries in adults living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART). The study, conducted by contributors Latifa Berrezouga, Ikbel Kooli, Wafa Marrakchi, Fadoua Neffati, Fadhel Najjar, and Mohamed Chakroun, sheds light on a relatively understudied area.

Study Design and Participants

The study encompassed 50 HIV-positive individuals in a test group (TG) and 50 HIV-negative individuals in a control group (CG). Dental examinations, following WHO guidelines, assessed Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT). Digital panoramic radiographs were employed to detect additional infectious foci. Non-stimulated saliva was collected to evaluate 18 biochemical parameters and salivary flow rate (SFR).

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Findings and Comparisons

Patients in the TG and CG had mean ages of 38.80 and 37.98 years, respectively, with slightly higher male-to-female sex ratios in the TG. While the TG exhibited a higher mean of decayed teeth (4.47) compared to CG (3.88), the difference was not statistically significant. However, the TG recorded significantly fewer filled teeth (2.38) compared to CG (4.16). The DMFT indices did not show a significant difference between the two groups.

Salivary Parameters

Several salivary parameters were significantly different between the TG and CG. The TG exhibited lower salivary flow rates (0.44 ml/min vs. 0.61 ml/min), lower levels of sodium and chlorides, and lower uric acid levels. Conversely, higher median levels were recorded for calcium and secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) in the TG.

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Implications and Recommendations

The study highlights alterations in salivary parameters, increased decayed teeth, and fewer filled teeth in PLWHA on ART. The findings suggest the importance of preventive measures to reduce dental caries and improve accessibility to oral care services for this population. Additionally, saliva emerges as a potential tool for monitoring the oral and general health status of PLWHA undergoing ART. The study emphasizes the need for proactive measures to address oral health disparities in this specific demographic.