Modulation of polymorphonuclear leukocyte adherence by pulpotomy medicaments effects of formocresol glutaraldehyde eugenol and calcium hydroxide

Abstract

Activated polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) release lysosomal enzymes and toxic oxygen-free radicals into their immediate environment. The persistent activation of PMNs by pulpotomy medicaments may contribute to the chronic inflammatory changes and root resorption seen in histologic sections. The authors examined the effects of pulpotomy medicaments commonly used in pediatric dentistry on PMN adherence, the earliest observable change in PMN behavior following activation, and perhaps 1 of the most crucial. The results showed that formocresol, eugenol, and calcium hydroxide caused lysis of PMNs at high concentrations, but activation of PMN adherence at low concentrations. By contrast, glutaraldehyde did not produce PMN lysis at high concentrations, nor did it cause activation of PMN adherence at low concentrations. These findings correspond to previous histologic studies which found that formocresol, eugenol, and calcium hydroxide, but not glutaraldehyde, can cause inflammatory destruction of pulpal tissues.