A Comparative Evaluation of Scatter Factor Levels in Gcf and Saliva : Scatter Factor-A Marker

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate and compare the relationship between the levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in GCF and saliva, both clinically and biochemically in patients with and without chronic periodontitis. For this study, 36 patients (12 males, 24 females) were selected in the age range of 18-60 years (mean 32.7 11.1 years). The subjects were assigned into 3 groups, which included Group I (control), Group II (chronic periodontitis with probing depth >5 mm), and Group III (chronic periodontitis with probing depth 5 mm). Clinical parameters included, plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), sulcus bleeding index (SBI), probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment (CAL). The GCF sample were taken by using the capillary tubes, whereas saliva was collected by suction method. The levels of HGF in GCF and in saliva was estimated using ELISA Reader. Both GCF and saliva can be used to estimate the levels of Hepatocyte growth factor and thus may be regarded as novel marker for periodontal disease activity.