A method of evaluating the cytological content of the gingival sulcus, with special reference to the movement of desquamative epithelial cells and neutrophils.

Abstract

The purpose of this report was to make periodical quantitative and qualitative analyses as to how slight inflammatory changes affected the content of the neutrophils and desquamative epithelial cells within the gingival sulcus. Cytological specimens of the gingival sulcular cells were isolated using the washing and scraping method, and were compared both histologically and pathologically.

The results showed an increase in the desquamative epithelium when an enlargement of tke epithelial interstitium was present. Appearance of different types of stained cells were also observed depending upon the degree of inflammation. A marked increase in neutrophils was observed in relation to an enlargement of the interstitium, dilation of the capillary vessels, and a wide range of neutrophilic infiltration.

In conclusion, the above results showed a correlation between the neutrophils and the desquamative epithelium with the surrounding tissue changes of the gingival sulcus during inflammation.

Furthermore, the methods used in isolating the cytological specimens were shown to give adequate information for evaluating clinical conditions.