Evaluation of Salivary Pepsin Levels and Dental Erosion in Patients With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Abstract
Background Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common gastrointestinal condition affecting many individuals worldwide. GERD is characterized by esophageal symptoms and may contribute to various extraesophageal symptoms, including dental erosion (DE). This study aimed to estimate the levels of pepsin in the saliva of GERD patients to evaluate and compare the activity of pepsin between the GERD and healthy groups and investigate the prevalence of DE in the GERD group. Methodology In this case-control study, 40 patients with GERD, diagnosed with an endoscope, and 35 healthy subjects were included. Patients and healthy individuals were subjected to the GERD questionnaire (GerdQ). A dental assessment was performed using the Basic Erosive Wear Examination (BEWE). A total score of the BEWE risk level was obtained by summing the scores obtained in each sextant (no risk = ≤2, low risk = 3-8, medium risk = 9-13, and high risk = >13). Five milliliters of unstimulated saliva were collected in a sterile tube. The salivary pepsin levels examined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were recorded for both groups. Results DE was significantly more frequent in GERD patients compared to healthy subjects. Overall, 32 (80%) GERD patients and 11 (31.4%) healthy individuals had DE risk. The mean salivary pepsin was 43.60 ± 10.61 ng/mL in the GERD group and 20.60 ± 9.27 ng/mL in the healthy group. A statistically significant difference was found in pepsin levels between the two…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a case-control, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 40 participants or records.
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