Predictive Value of Complete Blood Count Parameters for Alzheimer's Disease in Relation to Periodontal Status.

INTRODUCTION/

OBJECTIVE

Given the role of inflammation in the development of both Alzheimer's disease (AD) and periodontal disease, it is plausible that periodontal disease may influence the progression of AD. Complete blood count (CBC) parameters may also serve as predictive indicators for this condition. This study investigated the predictive value of CBC parameters on the progression of AD in patients with periodontal disease.

METHODS

Data from a prospective cohort study (n=90) with 6-month follow-up was analyzed. AD was assessed based on the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale. Records of C-reactive Protein (CRP) levels and CBC parameters measured within the 6 months preceding the participation date were evaluated. Cognitive assessments at the initial and 6th-month follow-up were performed using the Standardized Mini-Mental Test (SMMT). All patients underwent clinical periodontal examination.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The difference in SMMT score change (ΔSMMT) and platelet distribution width (PDW) value between groups with and without periodontitis was statistically notable (p<0.05). The presence of periodontitis was found to be significantly associated with age, ΔSMMT, and PDW values using the multivariate logistic regression model (p<0.05). Furthermore, having Stage II and Stage III AD, periodontitis, age factor, and mean platelet volume (MPV) value had a notable impact on ΔSMMT (p<0.05). These findings may indicate that systemic inflammation as reflected by complete blood count parameters (such as PDW and MPV) may play a predictive role in cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease patients with periodontitis.

CONCLUSION

PDW and MPV levels may have a predictive significance in clarifying the association between periodontitis and AD progression.