Variations in Haematological and Biochemical Indices in Aggressive Periodontitis: A Case-Control Study in Ghana

The occurrence of aggressive periodontitis is higher in individuals of African ethnicity, displaying distinctive features such as early onset, rapid progression, and the loss of multiple teeth. Existing research suggests an association between aggressive periodontitis and variations in haematological and biochemical indices. Nevertheless, these connections have not been thoroughly explored within the Ghanaian population.

In this case-control study, a total of 82 participants, comprising 50 cases and 32 controls, aged between 18 and 53 years, were enlisted between September and October 2023 at the Dental Clinic of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and the University of Ghana Dental School. The participants received a periodontal examination by a board-certified periodontist. Fasting venous blood samples were collected and subjected to analysis for haematological and biochemical variables.

The findings indicated that the serum triglyceride (mmol/L) levels were elevated in individuals with aggressive periodontitis compared to controls (0.9 ± 0.5 vs 0.7 ± 0.2; t = -2.214, p = 0.03). Specifically in males, patients with aggressive periodontitis exhibited higher serum total cholesterol (mmol/L) levels (3.6 ± 0.8 vs 3.1 ± 0.6; t = -2.332, p = 0.03). Likewise, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was higher in male patients with aggressive periodontitis compared to controls.

These findings suggest a potential association between aggressive periodontitis and systemic inflammation, as well as altered lipid metabolism.