[Morphometric distribution of HLA-DR-coded immunocytes in gingiva biopsy specimens with periodontal disease]

Gingiva biopsy specimens from 14 patients with chronic periodontal disease were analysed immunohistologically. Using monoclonal antibodies and the immunocytochemical APAAP-technique, HLA-DR-associated macrophages, helper/inductor-lymphocytes and dendritic reticulum cells were evaluated. The results show that the specific immunocompetent cells were predominantly found in the upper and middle part of the periodontal pocket. All biopsy specimens were reinforced by macrophages representing the predominant cell fraction. The density of all examined cells was diminished with decreasing API, GI and PDI. It becomes evident by the significant reduction in immunoreactive cells during periodontal therapy that chronic inflammation represents an altering pathogenic environment. The demonstration of HLA-DR positive cells suggests a genetic control of the infection-induced immune response.