Are the GCF levels of MCP-1 and RANTES elevated in Peri-partum women with periodontitis as compared to healthy controls?

The study objective was to compare levels of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), MCP-1 and RANTES in peri-partum women with periodontal disease to healthy controls. This is secondary analysis of Oral Conditions and Pregnancy (OCAP), a case-control study. Subjects (N=80) were stratified post-hoc based on periodontal status. An oral exam was performed within 72 hours after delivery. Cases (n=42) had moderate to severe/periodontitis (>15 sites with PD> 4mm). Controls (n=38) had a healthy periodontium (PD< 3mm). Pregnancy history was obtained through charts and interviews. Statistical tests included chi-square and t-test. Groups were balanced for age (p=0.57) but not race. Cases and controls were 17% and 82% Caucasian, respectively (p<0 .0001). There were no statistically significant (SS) differences between cases and controls. MCP-1 and RANTES were lower in cases than controls although not SS. There is no significant difference between MCP-1 and RANTES levels in women with periodontitis compared with healthy controls. iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS My successful completion of this thesis project involved more than just my desire to earn a valued degree in Dental Hygiene Education. Many others have contributed to the success of this project that I would like to thank. To my committee members, Mrs. thank you for your knowledge and encouragement throughout the process of completing this project. I also wish to thank Kevin Moss for his statistical expertise. Wallace and Mrs. Mary Jacks, MS, RDH, telling me that I can do it and teaching me how to tell my story. I'd like to thank my dog Turner who kept my feet warm on all those endless nights and finally extend my deepest gratitude to my family and my husband, Eric, who throughout this program has provided me with unconditional support and love. Without him continuously reminding me of this goal I had aimed to achieve, the completion of this project would not have been possible.