Presence and significance of interleukin-1 polymorphism in patients who present with acute coronary syndrome, angina, and chronic periodontitis: an epidemiologic pilot study.

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine whether acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and angina patients have a greater prevalence of interleukin (IL)-1 polymorphism at the time of hospital admission than groups without ACS or angina.

METHODS

A total of 106 patients hospitalized with ACS or angina were compared to a group of 1,959 individuals tested for susceptibility to periodontitis by profiling the IL-1 gene. Blood collected upon admission was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction amplification and gel electrophoresis to determine IL-1 polymorphism. A questionnaire was completed to assess home care and periodontal symptoms. Hospital and dental records were assessed for inclusion in the study, and dental records were analyzed for radiographic bone loss and dental history.

RESULTS

ACS/angina patients with severe radiographic bone loss demonstrated an increase in IL-1-positive polymorphism (P = 0.06). If patients were > or =60 years of age, the prevalence of the positive gene was enriched (P = 0.009) with IL-1alpha+4845T increasing significantly (P = 0.015).

CONCLUSIONS

For patients > or =60 years of age, there was a statistically significant correlation between ACS/angina and IL-1 polymorphism. Patients with ACS or angina were more likely to evidence a positive IL-1 polymorphism and severe periodontitis.