Related Experiment Videos
Melanin pigmentation and inflammation in human gingiva
Journal of Periodontology
|November 1, 1981
Summary
Melanin granule density in the gingiva decreases from the free gingival groove towards the crest and mucogingival junction. Higher melanophore density in vestibular epithelium correlates with attached gingiva inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Oral histology
- Periodontology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Melanin pigmentation is common in the gingiva.
- Its relationship with gingival inflammation is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map melanin granule distribution in gingival anatomical areas.
- To correlate melanin density with gingival inflammation severity.
Main Methods:
- Histologic analysis of gingival biopsies from 21 Caucasian subjects.
- Staining with Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Masson-Fontana.
- Quantification of melanophores and inflammatory cells.
Main Results:
- Melanin granule and melanophore density decreased from the free gingival groove to the crest and mucogingival junction.
- Melanophore density positively correlated with inflammation in attached gingiva (r=0.38, P<0.00003).
- Significant correlation found between epithelial and connective tissue melanin density in both free and attached gingiva.
Conclusions:
- Gingival melanin distribution follows a specific anatomical pattern.
- Melanin density in the attached gingiva may be linked to inflammatory processes.