[Polymorphonuclear neutrophilic granulocytes and the defense and damage of periodontal tissues]

The relationship of neutrophil to the periodontal tissue can be equated to the image of a double-edged blade. The role of the polymorphonuclear cells in the containment of gingival bacteria and their products must be weighed against the localized tissue destruction that may be due to the extracellular release of lysosomal enzymes and oxygen derived radicals. It seems reasonable to suggest that the role of neutrophils in the gingival tissue is primarily a defensive one. Therefore, several factors such as the entity of intrinsic activation, the quantity and quality of stimuli, as well as many physiological and/or pathological conditions can determine whether the response of polymorphonuclear leukocytes is more protective or destructive of the parodontium.