Salivary flow, amylase, and total protein in hospitalized patients with HIV infection / AIDS complications.

BACKGROUND

Saliva is a complex secretion produced daily by the salivary glands. Saliva consists mainly of water, enzymes, ions and amino acids and performs several important functions in oral health.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the flow rate and concentrations of amylase and total proteins in the saliva of hospitalized patients due to AIDS complications.

METHODS

Ninety-three men and women (20-64 years of age) were divided into two groups (46 HIV-infected patients and 47 controls) and had salivary flow rate and levels of amylase enzyme and total proteins evaluated.

RESULT: The mean salivary flow rate was lower in individuals with HIV when compared to controls (P < 0.05). No significant difference between amylase enzyme levels and total proteins were observed in the saliva of patients with HIV infection when compared to controls.

CONCLUSION

Individuals with HIV / AIDS infection (in hospital treatment) suffer no interference in levels of amylase and total salivary proteins, but they have significantly reduced salivary flow.