Unstimulated Salivary Flow Research Articles

The value of separate detection of anti-Ro52, anti-Ro60 and anti-SSB/La reactivities in relation to diagnosis and phenotypes in primary Sjögren's syndrome.

Autoantibody detection is an essential step in pSS diagnosis. However, the value of separate anti-Ro52, anti-Ro60 and anti-SSB/La detection in pSS diagnosis and phenotyping has not been extensively studied. This study aimed to explore disease characteristics of anti-SSA/Ro positive, suspected and definite pSS patients, in relation to serological profiles based on anti-Ro52, anti-Ro60 and anti-SSB/La reactivity. Of 187 anti-SSA/Ro positive patients included in the Belgian Sjögren's Syndrome Transition Trial (BeSSTT), 155 were considered definite pSS patients, due to fulfilment of the 2016 ACR-EULAR classification criteria, and 32 suspected, due to reactivity against SSA/Ro without presence of other criteria. None of the patients met any of the ACR-EULAR exclusion criteria for pSS. Patients were grouped based on the presence of anti-Ro52, anti-Ro60 and anti-SSB/La antibodies. Mono-reactivity against Ro60 or Ro52, double reactivity against Ro52/Ro60 and triple reactivity against Ro52/Ro60 and SSB was detected in respectively 30, 23, 70 and 60 patients. Mono-anti-Ro60 positive patients showed the least pSS features. Mono-anti-Ro52 positive patients reported a significantly higher dryness burden (p=0.016) and tended toward more salivary gland ultrasound (SGUS) abnormalities (p=0.054) than mono-anti-Ro60 positives. Double positive patients showed similar characteristics as mono-anti-Ro52 positive patients, whereas triple positive patients showed lowest unstimulated salivary flow rates (p=0.002) and Schirmer tests (p=0.002), highest ocular staining scores (p<0.001), most positive labial salivary gland biopsies (p=0.039), most laboratory abnormalities compatible with B-cell hyperactivity and highest SGUS scores (p<0.001) compared to other patient groups. These data indicate that separate detection of anti-Ro52, anti-Ro60 and anti-SSB/La reactivity is not only relevant towards pSS diagnosis, but markedly aids in patient stratification and evaluation of disease burden. Our results suggest a stepwise model in which mono-reactivity against Ro60 displayed the least objective and subjective glandular pSS features, whereas glandular abnormalities and signs of B-cell hyperactivity were most present in patients showing triple reactivity against Ro60, Ro52 and SSB/La.

Using the modified Schirmer test for dry mouth assessment: A cross-sectional study.

This study aimed to establish whether the modified Schirmer test could serve as a diagnostic tool for dry mouth, that is, whether it could reliably measure salivary film at selected locations within the oral cavity, and to identify levels of sensitivity/specificity and determine reference values. Therefore, a cross-sectional study (N = 120, mean age 63.5 [SD 13.9] years) was performed. The test was used at five locations (hard palate; buccal mucosa in molar region at 4 mm above occlusal plane; anterior tongue; lower lip; mouth floor), and results were recorded after 1, 2 and 3min. A statistically significant discriminatory ability of the Schirmer test for the unstimulated salivary flow rates could be shown for the palate (at 3min), buccal mucosa (at 1min), mouth floor (at 1 min), and tongue (at 2 and 3min) (areas under the curve 0.64-0.68), with individual sensitivity/specificity values depending on test location/time points. Thus, the modified Schirmer test has potential to become a simple and reproducible instrument for the detection of dry mouth based on low unstimulated salivary flow rates in dentistry and especially outreach care. Care must be taken concerning intraoral test location and measurement time.

Primary Sjögren syndrome and development of another autoimmune rheumatic disease during the follow-up

BackgroundPrimary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease with its main target being exocrine glands, and is the connective tissue disease more frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of another autoimmune rheumatic disease (ARD) developed in primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS) patients and to describe it’s clinical, serological and histologic characteristics.Materials and methodsThis is a retrospective cohort study. Data of patients with pSS diagnosis (American-European criteria 2002), included in the GESSAR database (Grupo de Estudio Síndrome de Sjögren, Sociedad Argentina de Reumatología) were analyzed. The development of a second ARD was registered during the follow up.Results681 patients were included, 94.8% female. The mean age was 54 (SD 14) years and mean age at diagnosis of 50 (SD 13) years. The mean follow-up was 4.7 (SD 4.9) years; 30 patients (4.41%, CI 95%: 3.1–5.7) developed a second ARD during the follow up, incidence rate was 9.1/1000 patients-year (IR 95%: 5.8–12.4/1000 patients-year), the most frequent being rheumatoid arthritis (RA). 96% out of these 30 patients had xerophthalmia, 86.2% xerostomia, 92% positive Schirmer test, 88.24% positive Rosa Bengala test, lisamine green or Ocular Staining Score, 81.2% positive unstimulated salivary flow, 82.1% Ro(+) and 33.33% La(+). Minor salivary gland biopsy had been performed in 14 of the 30 patients, 12 with positive results. There were no statistically significant differences respect baseline characteristics when comparing the patients who developed another ARD to the ones that did not.ConclusionsOf all the patients analyzed, 4.4% presented another ARD during their follow-up. It is important to be aware of this, to make an early and proper diagnosis and treatment of our patients.

Impact on xerostomia for patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma treated with superficial parotid lobe-sparing intensity-modulated radiation therapy (SPLS-IMRT): A prospective phase II randomized controlled study.

6059 Background: In the intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) era, xerostomia remains one of the most common radiation-induced toxicities in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients. We first proposed the superficial parotid lobe–sparing IMRT (SPLS-IMRT) technique in NPC, which has been proved to significantly reduce the mean doses of bilateral entire parotid glands and superficial parotid lobes. To further validate its clinical benefits, we conducted a prospective phase II randomized controlled study to compare the incidence of xerostomia in NPC patients treated with SPLS-IMRT and conventional IMRT (C-IMRT). Methods: Patients with histologically confirmed NPC who met the eligibility criteria were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either SPLS-IMRT or C-IMRT. The V36 (the percentage volume receiving a dose of 36 Gy) of the entire parotid gland was constrained to be less than 40% in both groups. Additionally, V26 (the percentage volume receiving a dose of 26 Gy) of the superficial parotid lobe was constrained to be less than 30% in the SPLS-IMRT group. The primary endpoint was the incidence of xerostomia at 12 months post-IMRT. The secondary endpoints included the xerostomia questionnaire (XQ) score, unstimulated salivary flow rate (USFR), stimulated salivary flow rate (SSFR), and survival outcomes. Results: From January 2018 to September 2018, 90 patients were enrolled (45 per group). Eighty-two patients were included for xerostomia analysis (42 in the SPLS-IMRT group and 40 in the C-IMRT group). At 12 months post-IMRT, the incidence of xerostomia in the SPLS-IMRT group was significantly lower than that in the C-IMRT group (83.4% vs. 95.0%; P = 0.007), especially the grade 3 xerostomia (0% vs. 12.5%; P &lt; 0.001). However, the median change in XQ score (XQchange) was similar between the two groups (11.9 points vs. 14.1 points; P = 0.194). Moreover, there was a significantly higher median fractional USFR (0.67 vs. 0.35; P = 0.024) and SSFR (0.66 vs. 0.32; P = 0.021) in the SPLS-IMRT group than the C-IMRT group. All 90 patients were included for survival analysis. With a median follow-up time of 37.8 months (IQR, 33.9–38.5 months), the 3-year locoregional relapse-free survival, distant metastasis-free survival, and overall survival in the SPLS-IMRT and C-IMRT groups were 92.5% vs. 90.9% (hazard ratio [HR], 1.84; P = 0.477), 83.8% vs. 81.7% (HR, 1.13; P = 0.816), and 88.9% vs. 88.2% (HR, 0.96; P = 0.949), respectively. Conclusions: SPLS-IMRT significantly reduced the incidence of xerostomia at 12 months post-IMRT in NPC by recovering parotid gland function earlier than C-IMRT, without compromising survivals. Phase III clinical trials are needed to confirm this result. Clinical trial information: NCT05020067.

POS0145 CLINICAL RESPONSE TO RITUXIMAB IS ASSOCIATED WITH PREVENTION OF B-CELL DRIVEN SALIVARY GLAND INFLAMMATION AND EPITHELIAL RESTORATION AS REVEALED BY MOLECULAR PATHOLOGY: RESULTS FROM THE TRACTISS TRIAL IN PRIMARY SJOGREN’S SYNDROME

BackgroundThe TRial for Anti-B-Cell Therapy In patients with pSS (TRACTISS) is the largest multi-centre, placebo-controlled, phase-III trial with the administration of 2 cycles of Rituximab (RTX) or placebo at week 0 and 24, with trial clinical endpoints at week 48. Despite the primary endpoints (30% reduction in fatigue or oral dryness) were not met, RTX treated patients showed an improvement in secondary endpoints, such as unstimulated whole salivary flow (UWSF), and salivary gland (SG) total ultrasound score1,2. Additionally, recent post-hoc analysis of TRACTISS using novel CRESS composite endpoints3, highlighted a significantly increased response rate in the RTX vs placebo arm.ObjectivesTo perform the first longitudinal analysis of matched transcriptomic and histological data of SG biopsies of pSS patients treated with RTX vs placebo at 3 time points, over 48 weeks, from the TRACTISS cohort, in order to identify mechanisms of response/resistance to B cell depletion.Methods29 pSS patients randomised to RTX or placebo arm consented for labial SG biopsies at week 0, 16 and 48. Patients received two 1000mg cycles of RTX or placebo at week 0 and 24. SG focus score, inflammatory aggregate area fraction, B-cells (CD20+), T-cells (CD3+), follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) (CD21+) and plasma cells (CD138+) density were assessed using quantitative digital image analysis. RNA sequencing with deconvolution and pathway analysis was performed to identify genes signatures and consensus gene modules as biomarkers of disease evolution and response/resistance to therapy.ResultsPlacebo-treated SGs showed worsening of SG inflammation highlighted by the increment of aggregate size, B-cell density, development of new FDC networks, and a higher ectopic GC prevalence over 48 weeks, compared to RTX-treated patients. No difference in focus score, total T-cell and plasma cell infiltration was observed. RTX downregulated genes involved in immune cell recruitment and inflammatory aggregate organisation (e.g. CXCL13, CCR7 and PDCD1). Gene signature-based analysis of 35 immune cell types using XCell highlighted how RTX blocked class-switched and memory-B-cells accumulation in SGs over 48 weeks. Pathway analyses confirmed the downregulation of leukocyte migration, MHC-II antigen presentation, and T-cell co-stimulation immunological pathways, such as the CD40 receptor complex pathway. Among RTX-treated patients, only CRESS-responders demonstrated prevention of worsening B cell-driven molecular pathology signatures over time and a significant improvement in UWSF, in parallel with the upregulation of molecular pathways associated to SG restoration of the glandular epithelium. None of the above effects were observed at week 16 after the first RTX cycle.ConclusionTwo RTX infusions repeated at week 24 exerted beneficial effects on labial SG inflammatory infiltration in pSS by downregulating genes involved in immune cell recruitment, activation and organisation in ectopic GCs. Conversely, all the above parameters showed significant evolution in placebo treated patients over 48 weeks demonstrating progression of SG immunopathology. Clinical responders to RTX based on CRESS response criteria were characterised by preservation of exocrine function which appear driven by SG epithelial restoration.

POS0790 18F-FLUORODEOXYGLUCOSE (FDG) PET-CT IMAGING OF SALIVARY GLANDS IN PRIMARY SJÖGREN’S SYNDROME AND ITS CORRELATION WITH ULTRASONOGRAPHIC SCORES AND SALIVARY FLOW RATE COMPARED TO HEALTHY CONTROLS

BackgroundThe use of salivary gland imaging modalities in patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) has been increasing recently. The contribution of each imaging method in terms of diagnosis or disease activity differs from each other. Although ultrasound and MRI are the most commonly used imaging modalities, the role of PET-CT for diagnosing pSS and determining glandular and extraglandular involvement has largely been neglected.ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare the sizes and metabolic activities of the major salivary glands in patients with pSS and healthy controls (HC). Correlation of the 18F-FDG PET-CT uptake characteristics with ultrasound scores and salivary flow rates of the patients and HC was also determined.Methods22 patients with pSS and 10 age/sex-matched HC were included in the study. The sizes and FDG uptakes of the parotid and submandibular glands of pSS patients and HC were assessed by PET-CT. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) was evaluated for FDG uptakes, and each patient’s liver uptake and salivary gland uptake ratio were calculated. In addition, correlations of gland sizes and FDG uptakes in PET-CT with OMERACT and Hocevar ultrasound scores, stimulated and unstimulated SFR, ESSPRI dryness scores and disease durations of pSS patients were calculated by Spearman test.ResultsThe mean age (SD) of the patients was 58.6 years (10.5) versus 58.6 years (19.1) of HC; the mean (SD) disease duration was 8.96 (8.77) years. ANA was positive in all patients, anti-SSA positivity was present in 82.6%, and 30.4% of patients experienced ≥1 parotid swelling episode.Compared to HCs, the mean size of both submandibular glands (p=0.006 for left and p=0.032 for right) and SUVmax of the left submandibular gland (p=0.044) were significantly smaller in patients with pSS. In pSS patients, both right and left parotid sizes were smaller and SUVmax uptake was greater than in HC; these differences however did not reach statistical significance.When the PET-CT involvement characteristics of the patients were compared with the salivary gland ultrasonography scores, there was a statistically significant negative correlation between the left parotid gland size in PET-CT and the ultrasonographic inhomogeneity of Hocevar score and OMERACT score. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between right parotid gland size measured on PET-CT with ultrasonographic inhomogeneity, hyperechoic foci, parenchymal echogenicity, Hocevar total score, and OMERACT score. No statistically significant correlation was found between SUVmax scores detected by PET-CT and ultrasound scores in both parotid glands and submandibular glands.A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the total gland size measured in PET-CT and the unstimulated salivary flow rate (p=0.038, r=0.604). There was a negative correlation between total gland size and ESSPRI dryness scores and symptom duration, which did not reach statistical significance.ConclusionPET-CT SUVmax measurements do not provide sufficient information for pSS-related involvement of the major salivary glands. Secondly, size measurement of the parotid glands by PET-CT is associated with OMERACT ultrasound scores, and also the sizes of both submandibular and parotid glands are smaller than HC.Table 1.Correlations of gland sizes and ultrasonographic scoresGlandOMERACT ScoreParenchymalHomogeneityHypoechoic AreasHiperechoicVisibility of Gland BorderParenchymal InhomogenicityTotalSize (PET/CT)EchogenityFociR-Parotisr-.699*-.717*-.704*-0,598-.656*-0,368-.758**-.645*p0,0170,0130,0160,0520,0280,2660,0070,032L-Parotisr-.699*-.717*-.704*-0,598-.656*-0,368-.758**-0,482p0,0170,0130,0160,0520,0280,2660,0070,134R-Submr-0,0110.118-0,011-0,2700,203-0,0060,2470.024p0,9720.7140,9720,3970,5260,9860,4390.942L-Submr0,2450,3060,2450,0710,3270,1180,3060,435p0,4430,3330,4430,8260,3000,7140,3330,158Disclosure of InterestsNone declared

AB0574 PREDICTOR FACTORS IN EMPOWERMENT OF PATIENTS WITH PRIMARY SJOGREN SYNDROME IN THE FRAME OF VALUE BASED HEALTH CARE

BackgroundPatient empowerment is a key component in developing awareness of the disease in patient-centred care in the setting of chronic disease management.ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate predictive factors in the empowerment of patients with Sjögren’s Syndrome (pSS), while examining patients reported outcome measures (PROMs) in the setting of value-based health care.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, 169 patients with pSS (F/M: 162/7; mean age: 52.94±12.20 years) were included. Data was collected from the clinical examination, major salivary gland ultrasonography (SGUS) and a structured questionnaire regarding utilisation of health services and PROMs regarding Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS; HADS-Anxiety and HADS-Depression) and Self-reported General Health Status (100-m VAS; 0: very poor vs 10: very good). Both stimulated (S-SFRs) and unstimulated salivary flow rates (U-SFRs) of patients were measured as ml/min. Patients with hyposalivation were grouped as according to U-SFR (≤0.1 ml/min). Furthermore, Outcome Measures from Rheumatology ultrasonography (OMERACT US) scores (from 0: normal to 3 points: severe inhomogeneity) were collected to evaluate glandular involvement of patients. After initial statistical analyses was carried out, mediation analysis was performed to evaluate the associations.ResultsThe rate of patients with hyposalivation was found as 45% and most (85.7%) had elevated SGUS scores (≥2 points). In addition, self-reported oral health problems were common in the study group (from 23.8% to 53.4%). Among this cohort, the patients suffered from Burning oral sensation (27 %) had poor scores in OHIP-14 (29.81±14.48 vs 20.22±12.43), HADS-Depression (10.07±4.49 vs 6.65±4.20) and Self-reported general health status (45.43±17.95 vs 55.56±22.43) compared to those without Burning oral sensation (p=0.006, p=0.019, p=0.018, respectively). Furthermore, significant correlations were observed between OHIP-14 score and HADS-A score (r: 0.4 p: 0.004) and HADS-D scores (r: 0.58 p=0.000). Utilising mediation analysis, the HADS-Depression score was directly mediated by the presence of Burning oral sensation (p=0.0005) and indirectly mediated by OHIP-14 score (p=0.0360). In this group, the interval from the last dental visit was mean: 19 months. Interestingly, 60% preferred to relate their oral discomfort during visits (3 times a year), to rheumatologists.ConclusionBetter health outcomes could be achieved by reducing oral discomfort, increasing dental visits, improvement of oral health related quality of life and managing depression by a multidisciplinary team with dentists and psychiatrists in patient-centred care. Since these factors have a significant effect on patients’ daily life, treatment plans are needed to provide patient empowerment by using suitable strategies in the frame of value-based health care.Disclosure of InterestsNone declared

Comparative Assessment of Salivary Flow Rates Among Reverse Smokers and Smokers Using Modified Schirmer Test

Background: Saliva, a complex fluid secreted by the salivary glands within the oral cavity, is the first to interact with smoke while smoking. Nicotine in smoke causes structural and functional changes in the saliva, leading to a significant reduction in salivary flow. Aim: The present study was done to compare the salivary flow between reverse smokers, regular smokers, and non-smokers with the help of the Modified Schirmer Test (MST) to assess unstimulated saliva. Materials and Methodology: Ninety subjects were randomly divided into three groups; Group A (30) subjects who had the habit of reverse smoking daily for &gt;6 months, Group B (30) subjects who had the habit of smoking daily for &gt;6 months, and Group C (30) healthy, non-tobacco users. MST was done in the morning hours; they were not asked to eat/drink for 2 h before the procedure. Later, they were asked to raise their tongue, and the rounded end of Schirmer's strip was placed on the floor of the mouth. Wetting of the strip was recorded every 1, 2, and 3-minute intervals. Results: Data was recorded, and statistical analysis was done by the paired t-test. The mean value of salivary flow rate in reverse smokers per 3 minutes (19.73 ± 4.16) was less when compared to conventional smokers (22.53 ± 2.75) and healthy individuals (31.53 ± 2.90), with a significant P value of P &lt; 0.0001. Conclusion: There was a significantly reduced unstimulated salivary flow rate in reverse smokers compared to conventional smokers and healthy individuals.

Oral health status after hematopoietic stem cell transplantations: Outcomes from an adult Italian population.

To describe oral cavity changes in patients who underwent a hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). A group of 32 patients was studied after a mean period of 48.8 months (±11.22) from HSCT; oral, dental, and periodontal status were collected and compared with those of healthy matched controls. Unstimulated whole salivary flow (UWS) and salivary pH were also measured. A validated questionnaire (EORTC QLQH&N-35) was used for reported quality of life. Fifty-nine percent of patients were affected by chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD). Dental health and periodontal status were statistically worse than in controls (P = .003 and P = .008, respectively). Regarding the HSCT group, UWS was statistically lower, and EORTC QLQH&N-35 significantly higher than those reported in controls (P = .000 for both). There was no statistical correlation between hypo-salivation and conditioning, presence of cGVHD, type of medication used before and after transplantation, and time of follow-up. A reduction in salivary pH has been noted only for patients with erosive oral lesions. The oral cavity of HSCT patients appeared to undergo substantial modifications and the quality of life was deeply compromised.

Evaluation of Salivary Components and Dental Plaque in Relation to Dental Caries Status in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus.

PurposeTo evaluate the dental caries prevalence in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) as compared to healthy children and, to assess the salivary components (flow rate, glucose, α-Amylase, Streptococcus mutans) and dental plaque in relation to their dental caries status.MethodsDental caries were estimated by using the DMFS index and dental plaque by Sillness and Loe plaque index. The following methods were used to assess the salivary components; draining method to determine the flow rate; glucose oxidase peroxidase method for glucose; substrate method for α-Amylase, Mitis Salivarius Bacitracin agar was used to culture Streptococcus mutans.ResultsCaries prevalence was significantly lower in T1DM. In the diabetic group, a significant positive correlation was found between DMFS value and plaque, DMFS value and salivary glucose, and also with DMFS value and salivary α-Amylase. A significant negative correlation was found between the DMFS value and the unstimulated salivary flow rate. The multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that decrease in the unstimulated salivary flow rate to be significantly associated with increasing DMFS values.ConclusionThe caries prevalence was found to be low in T1DM when compared to the healthy children, the cause for it being related to the low plaque scores. Low caries prevalence could also be due to the restriction of sucrose in their diet.Clinical significanceAs clinicians, along with restoring the smiles of a child patient, we have to retrospectively analyze the factors involved in the causation of dental caries. Educating the parents and the child in regard to this will help prevent the occurrence of any new carious lesion.How to cite this articleManjushree R, Anandakrishna L, Prasad KS K, et al. Evaluation of Salivary Components and Dental Plaque in Relation to Dental Caries Status in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(S-2):S121-S125.

A call for further research on the relation between type 2 diabetes and oral candidiasis

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between oral candidiasis with salivary features, neutrophil function, and glycemic control in type 2 diabetes (T2D). Twenty-nine individuals were included, 16 with T2D and 13 without the disease. The participants underwent clinical examination, neutrophilic function tests, fasting glycemia and glycated hemoglobin (A1c), stimulated and unstimulated saliva collection, and swab and exfoliative cytology. Salivary flow, pH, and total fungi count were evaluated on saliva, and identification of the Candida species was performed in saliva and swab samples. There was no difference in unstimulated salivary flow and pH of the stimulated and unstimulated saliva for participants with T2D and controls (P > .05). Individuals from both groups presented no candidal lesions. The salivary fungal growth in the T2D group was higher than that in controls (P < .05). Only individuals with T2D presented alterations in the neutrophilic functions (14/16; 87.5%; P < .05). There was no relationship between high A1c values and neutrophil dysfunction with the presence of Candida spp. in both saliva and mucosa (P > .05). High A1c level, reduction in neutrophil activity, salivary flow and pH, and increase in total salivary Candida spp. counts were not related to oral candidiasis in patients with T2D.

Inhalative Treatment of Laryngitis Sicca in Patients with Sjögren's Syndrome-A Pilot Study.

Xerostomia and keratoconjunctivitis sicca are the main symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome. Often patients also suffer from laryngeal complaints, but there is a lack of specific treatment options. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a liposomal inhalation therapy. Patients with Sjögren’s syndrome were included and received a two-month period of liposomal inhalation therapy. The effect was evaluated by standardized questionnaires (patient-reported indices) and measurement of unstimulated whole salivary flow and glandular stiffness. Forty-five patients were included in this study. A comparison of baseline and therapeutic values demonstrated a significant improvement of the EULAR Sjögren’s syndrome patient reported index (ESSPRI) with a baseline of 5.0 ± 2.1 and a therapeutic value of 4.1 ± 2.4 (p = 0.012). This improvement was mainly based on the item on dryness within this score. Overall, the therapy was well tolerated. In conclusion, an inhalative application of liposomes had a beneficial effect on the reported dryness in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome. A first insight into the effect of inhalation therapy on laryngeal symptoms could thus be obtained and at the same time the basis was created on which case calculations can be carried out in the future.

An assessment of unstimulated salivary flow rate, IgA and clinical oral dryness among active and passive smokers.

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of smoking on the whole salivary flow rate (SFR), IgA levels and clinical oral dryness (COD) among active and passive smokers. The participants were categorized as active smokers (N = 54) or passive smokers (N = 163). Saliva was collected in tubes and placed in ice storage at -70°C. Salivary IgA levels were assessed in duplication using the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Following the saliva sample collection, the subjects were assessed for COD using the COD score, SFR and caries. Chi-square test, the t-test and ANOVA were employed to compare the clinical impact of the smoking status associated with specific variables (smoking status, number of cigarettes, active caries, gender, age, COD score, IgA level and SFR). A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Two hundred and seventeen subjects with the mean age of 32.86±6.30 years, with 145 males (66.8%) and 72 females (33.2%), were included in the study. Among the active smokers, 88.8% were males compared to 11.2% females. The active smokers had the mean age of 32.52 years, a COD score of 1.43, an IgA level of 1.39 g/l, and a SFR of 0.37 ml/min. Among the passive smokers, 59.5% were males and 40.5% were females, with the mean age of 32.97 years, a COD score of 0.87 g/l, an IgA level of 1.47, and a SFR of 0.42 ml/min. Active caries showed a positive correlation with the number of cigarettes, with significance in the >35 years age group (p < 0.05). The study demonstrated significant differences in SFR, IgA and COD scores among the active and passive smokers. The number of cigarettes had a negative impact on saliva production, IgA levels, the oral health status, and the progression of caries with respect to age and gender. Smoking potentially leads to xerostomia associated with active caries. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2022;35(1):39-51.

Evaluation of the efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on salivary flow rate in patients with xerostomia - A case control study.

Introduction:In oral cavity, saliva is a physiological fluid present in the oral cavity. Oral fluid is an absolute media exploring for health and disease surveillance. Saliva is a complex fluid. Xerostomia is the subjective complain of dryness in the oral cavity due to decreased salivary flow. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is an established physical therapy, which is useful for the pain relief.Materials and Methods:A total of 25 subjects of xerostomia and 25 age and sex matched normal subjects visiting the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Pacific Dental College and Hospital were included in the study. For patients with positive mirror stick test unstimulated saliva were collected with ‘low forced spitting’ method in a graduated test tube for 5 minutes. Individuals with unstimulated salivary flow equal to or less than 0.5 mL per 5 min were included in the study group (xerostomia) and individuals with salivary flow more than 0.5 mL per 5 min were included in the control group (age and sex matched). The TENS unit were then activated and intensity control switch were gradually increased to tolerable level of patient for 15 min. At this optimal intensity, stimulated saliva were collected for 5 min with same method in a separate graduated test tube and flow rate were compared with unstimulated salivary flow rate. Same were done with 25 control patients.Results:The data thus obtained was subjected to statistical analysis. The following findings were observed in the study. There was increase salivary flow rate in xerostomic individuals after TENS application. More improvement was found in inter appointment salivary flow than two follow-ups. Healthy group showed more improvement than xerostomia after TENS therapy Known cases of diabetes mellitus patients with xerostomia revealed more improvement than other etiologies of xerostomia included in this study.Conclusion:This present study has an important therapeutic value in the treatment of patients with xerostomia. TENS therapy was highly effective in stimulating whole salivary flow. The encouraging results of this present study indicate that TENS has the potential to increase salivary flow rate and can be an important alternative in the xerostomia treatment.

Effect of Mobile Phone Radiation on Parotid and Submandibular Salivary GlandsAn Ultrasonographic Study

Introduction: In this era of digitalism, mobile phones have become a cultural accessory. Frequent smartphone usage results in possible adverse effects from low radiofrequency radiation and thermal effect emitted by these devices. One of the major concerns is salivary glands as the mobile phones are held against the side of face in close proximity to these glands. Aim: To assess the effect of cell phone radiation on the volume, systolic velocity, salivary flow rate of parotid and submandibular gland between the dominant and non dominant side of mobile phone users. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology with the sample size of 100 (50 males and 50 females). Inclusion criteria were based on the frequency of mobile phone usage of more than two hours per day. Mobile phone usage was determined based on patient’s answer to the questionnaire. Ultrasonography (USG) of both parotid and submandibular gland was done bilaterally to measure the volume of the glands and Colour Doppler of external carotid artery to measure systolic velocity. Modified Schirmer tear strips were used bilaterally to measure unstimulated salivary flow rate. The data was entered into MS excel and significance was calculated using independent sample t-test. Results: In parotid gland, mean volume, mean systolic velocity and mean salivary flow rate were of higher value in the dominant side (14.22±2.17 mL; 15.14±3.74 cm/s; 0.37±0.26 mm/5 mins) compared to the non dominant side (13.76±2.14 mL; 14.53±3.39 cm/s; 0.24±0.2 mm/5 mins). In submandibular gland, mean volume, mean systolic velocity and mean salivary flow rate were of higher value in the dominant side (9.60±1.96 mL; 15.70±6.44 cm/s; 0.30±0.22 mm/5 mins) compared to the non dominant side (8.88±2.17 mL; 13.87±4.83 cm/s; 0.26±0.21 mm/5 mins). Conclusion: The volume, systolic velocity of blood flow, the salivary flow rate, of the parotid gland and submandibular gland were significantly more on the dominant side than the non dominant side of mobile phone usage. The study emphasised that prolonged mobile phone usage causes biological changes in salivary glands and its flow rate.

Risk factors associated with xerostomia and reduced salivary flow in hypertensive patients.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors associated with xerostomia and hyposalivation in a group of hypertensive patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted. Hypertensive patients belonged to two healthcare centers were included. Xerostomia was assessed by asking a question and using the Xerostomia Inventory. Unstimulated salivary flow was collected. Different epidemiological variables were analyzed such as age, sex, habits, diseases, drugs, and blood pressure. 221 individuals were included. Xerostomia was reported in 51.13% of patients. Patients with xerostomia suffered more from osteoarthritis and diaphragmatic hernia. These patients took more anticoagulants (acenocoumarol), antiarrhythmics (amiodarone), analgesics (paracetamol) and epilepsy drugs (pregabalin) and less platelet aggregation inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (losartan). Unstimulated flow was reduced in 37.56% of patients. Patients suffering hyposalivation presented more diseases such as anxiety, infectious or parasitic diseases, hepatitis C, diaphragmatic hernia, and osteoarthritis. These patients took more repaglinide, thiazides, anti-inflammatories, anti-rheumatics, glucosamine, diazepam, and selective beta-2-adrenoreceptor agonists and less combinations of candesartan and diuretics. Xerostomia and hyposalivation are frequent in hypertensive patients. It is advisable to take into consideration the comorbidities and the drugs they receive, since they can increase the risk of these salivary disorders.

Psychological profile and α-amylase levels in oral lichen planus patients: A case-control preliminary study.

To investigate psychological (anxiety, depression, and stress) and salivary (flow and concentration of α-amylase) profile associated with oral lichen planus. A case-control preliminary study with oral lichen planus patients and age-gender matched controls was conducted. The participants underwent psychological tests (Beck depression and anxiety inventories and perceived stress scale) and saliva collection to determine the unstimulated salivary flow and α-amylase levels at three moments along the day. The data were analyzed statistically using Mann-Whitney, McNemar chi-square and Friedman tests, and the Spearman correlation coefficient. The significance level adopted was 5%. A total of 46 case-control pairs were recruited. There was a significant correlation between anxiety, depression, stress, and oral lichen planus, as well as the stress and decline of salivary α-amylase levels. Higher concentrations of this biomarker were found in the case group thirty minutes post-awakening. The applied psychological tests indicated that factors such as anxiety, depression, and stress were associated with oral lichen planus. Salivary analyses demonstrated a higher concentration of α-amylase thirty minutes post-awakening on individuals with the disease and its decline correlated with stress, suggesting the role of α-amylase as a promising biomarker for future studies.

Salivary parameters and their correlation with neutrophil counts in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Chemotherapy for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is known to render children immuno-deficient. A concomitant suppression of local defence mechanisms, such as saliva may further aggravate the adverse consequences of chemotherapy. The present study was conducted to evaluate alterations in salivary flow rate, pH and buffering capacity and to correlate these parameters with Absolute Neutrophil Counts (ANC). A cohort of 43 patients, aged 3-12years were evaluated for the aforementioned parameters at baseline, post-induction and post-consolidation phases. Salivary collection was done and ANC was measured from routine haematological reports. A decrease in the salivary parameters was observed at the end of Induction phase as compared to baseline, with a statistically significant decrease in unstimulated salivary flow rates (p < 0.01). Statistically significant positive correlations were found between ANC and salivary flow rate (p = 0.005), pH (p < 0.00) and buffering capacity (p < 0.00). On testing the significance of these correlations, all the values for these parameters were found to be statistically significant. Salivary parameters showed derangements over the phases of chemotherapy, with maximum decrease at the end of induction phase. The positive correlations of salivary parameters with ANC of the subjects may be considered indicative of a concomitant immunological compromise in these children.

Hyperbaric oxygen treatment of mandibular osteoradionecrosis: Combined data from the two randomized clinical trials DAHANCA-21 and NWHHT2009-1

PurposeOsteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the mandible is a serious complication of head and neck radiotherapy. This study aims to investigate the effect of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment on ORN in two randomized, controlled multicentre trials. Methods and materialsPatients with ORN with indication for surgical treatment were randomised to either group 1: surgical removal of necrotic mandibular bone supplemented by 30 pre- and 10 postoperative HBO exposures at 243 kPa for 90 min each, or group 2: surgical removal of necrotic bone only. Primary outcome was healing of ORN one year after surgery evaluated by a clinically adjusted version of the Common Toxicity Criteria of Adverse Events (CTCAE) v 3.0. Secondary outcomes included xerostomia, unstimulated and stimulated whole salivation rates, trismus, dysphagia, pain, Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and quality of life according to EORTC. Data were combined from two separate trials. Ninety-seven were enrolled and 65 were eligible for the intent-to-treat analysis. The 33% drop-out was equally distributed between groups. ResultsIn group 1, 70% (21/30) healed compared to 51% (18/35) in group 2. HBO was associated with an increased chance of healing independent of baseline ORN grade or smoking status as well as improved xerostomia, unstimulated whole salivary flow rate, and dysphagia. Due to insufficient recruitment, none of the endpoints reached a statistically significant difference between groups. ADL data could only be obtained from 50 patients. ConclusionHyperbaric oxygen did not significantly improve the healing outcome of osteoradionecrosis after surgical removal of necrotic bone as compared to standard care (70% vs. 51%). This effect is not statistically significant due to the fact that the study was underpowered and is therefore prone to type II error.

Salivary Flow Rate Before, During and After Insertion of Complete Denture in Different Age Group: a Comparative study

Background: Increase in salivary flow accompanying complete denture insertion is a well-known phenomenon. Complete dentures act as a mechanical stimulant, increasing salivary flow after insertion. This study compares unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow rates before, during, and after insertion of a complete denture in different age groups.Method: Forty subjects meeting inclusion criteria were selected. Unstimulated saliva was collected first. Stimulation was produced by chewing paraffin wax and collected of saliva in a graduated container. This procedure was carried out before insertion, during insertion, 24 hours after, and 7 days after insertion of complete dentures. The study data were entered, edited, and coded in Microsoft Excel. The unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow rate was compared at different time intervals.Result: Unstimulated salivary rate was lowest before denture insertion with mean values of 0.27ml/minute. The highest flow rate was recorded during denture insertion (mean values of 0.60 ml/minute). The mean unstimulated salivary flow rate 24 hours after denture insertion was higher than 7 days after denture insertion. The mean stimulated salivary rate was lowest before denture insertion (mean values of 0.59 ml/minute). The highest flow rate was recorded during denture insertion (mean values of 0.93 ml/minute). There was a declining trend in salivary flow rate after denture insertion i.e. 0.86 ml/minute to 0.75ml/min after 24 hours and 7 days of denture insertion. A gradual decrease in salivary flow rate with an increase in age was noted but the association of age with salivary flow rates was not statistically significant.Conclusion: There was an increase in both unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow rate after insertion of complete denture and age does not affect salivary flow rates before, during (immediately after), 24 hours after, and 7 days after denture insertion.