To compare the levels of tnf-alpha in serum of gestational and non gestational diabetes patients with chronic periodontitis – a case control study

Abstract

Background: The bidirectional association of periodontitis and diabetes are commonly reported as complex and chronic diseases. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus is believed to develop in the third trimester where progressive insulin resistance occurs with dysfunction of pancreatic ß-cell mass and insulin secretion. The maternal gingival inflammation including TNF - α is hypothesized to be the cause of insulin resistance. TNF – α, an insulin antagonist, is often used as an inflammatory marker to evaluate inflammatory status in patients with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and periodontitis.