Detection of Hepatitis C Virus RNA From Gingival Crevicular Fluid and Its Relation to Virus Presence in Saliva

Abstract

The results suggest that besides blood, the other most probable source of HCV in saliva is GCF. Unknown endogenous HCV inhibitory mechanisms in the oral cavity may explain the discrepancies in HCV appearance between saliva and GCF. The results provide a biologic basis for further investigation of the role of HCV in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease.