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

Abstract

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. Results: The mean salivary flow rate was lower in individuals with HIV when compared to controls (P < 0.05). No signifi- cant 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. Keywords: Saliva; Salivation; Alpha-Amylases; Salivary Proteins and Peptides; Xerostomia.