Vascular endothelial growth factor levels in gingival crevicular fluid before and after periodontal therapy.

Introduction: Of the various cytokines and growth factors regulating angiogenesis, the most potent agent acting on vascular endothelium is vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF). The present study aims to access VEGF concentration in periodontal diseases and the effect of periodontal therapy on its concentration in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). Materials and Methods: Ninety five subjects (47 females and 48 males) 25- 47 y of age were divided into healthy (group-1), gingivitis (group-2), and periodontitis (group-3). GCF samples were collected using micro-capillary pipettes & were transferred immediately to plastic vials and stored at -70˚C until the time of the assay. The concentration of VEGF was determined using commercially available ELISA kit. Results: The mean VEGF concentration was highest in periodontitis patients (Group 3) (88.08±8.04pg/ml), with lowest in healthy patients (Group 1). VEGF levels reduced significantly after therapy in Groups 2 and 3. Conclusion: VEGF levels in GCF had a significant correlation with both periodontal disease progression and healing after therapy.