Evaluation of the Effect of Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy on Cystatin C Levels in Gingival Crevicular Fluid among Patients with Periodontitis

Abstract

Introduction: Periodontitis is a complex, multifactorial inflammatory disease. Cystatin C in gingival crevicular fluid emerges as an important regulator of proteolytic enzymes responsible for tissue degradation. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of mechanical periodontal therapy on Cystatin C levels in gingival crevicular fluid. 

Materials and Methods: The study included 20 participants: 10 patients diagnosed with periodontitis and 10 healthy controls. Gingival crevicular fluid samples were collected before treatment and four weeks post-treatment. Cystatin C levels were measured using the immunoturbidimetric assay technique. 

Results: A statistically significant elevation in Cystatin C levels was observed in patients prior to treatment compared to healthy controls. Following non-surgical periodontal therapy, a reduction in Cystatin C levels was noted. 

Conclusion: The study demonstrated the effectiveness of non-surgical periodontal therapy in reducing Cystatin C levels, reflecting improvement in the inflammatory condition. Measurement of Cystatin C levels may serve as a non-invasive tool for monitoring patient response to periodontal therapy.