Original Article

Investigation of serum CRP levels in people with Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis

serum CRP levels in Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis

Abstract

Background

Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (RAS) is a common and painful condition characterized by recurrent ulcers in the oral mucosa, affecting a significant portion of the population and leading to considerable discomfort and decreased quality of life. Despite its prevalence, the underlying etiology of RAS remains poorly understood, with factors such as genetics, immune dysregulation, and environmental triggers being implicated. C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase protein primarily produced by the liver in response to inflammation, and its levels in serum can serve as a biomarker for systemic inflammatory conditions. This study aims to investigate the relationship between serum CRP levels and the occurrence of RAS seeking to elucidate the role of systemic inflammation in this condition.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study design, we enrolled 26 participants diagnosed with RAS according to established diagnostic criteria, alongside a control group of 26 healthy individuals matched for age and gender. Serum CRP levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods, and demographic, clinical, and lifestyle data were collected through structured questionnaires. We employed statistical analyses, including t-tests and regression models, to assess the association between serum CRP levels and the frequency and duration of RAS.

Results

Our findings reveal significantly elevated serum CRP levels in individuals with RAS compared to healthy controls (p<0.04), indicating a potential link between systemic inflammation and the pathophysiology of RAS. Additionally, elevated CRP levels were associated with increased ulcer severity and prolonged healing time. Multivariate analyses further demonstrated that serum CRP could serve as an independent predictor of RAS severity, highlighting its potential role as a biomarker for disease activity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our investigation provides compelling evidence that systemic inflammation, as indicated by elevated serum CRP levels, is associated with RAS.

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Files
IssueVol 7, No 4 (2024) QRcode
SectionOriginal Article
DOI https://doi.org/10.18502/igj.v7i4.17891
Keywords
RAS C-reactive protein CRP Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis

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How to Cite
1.
Khazaei B, Akhtar R, Khazaei HA, Shirzaiy M, khazaei A, Ansari H. Investigation of serum CRP levels in people with Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis. Immunol Genet J. 2024;7(4):268-273.