Levels of High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein in Heart Transplant Patients

Inflammation plays a key role in the deterioration of chronic heart transplants. Periodontal disease is not limited to the tooth-supporting structures - it also contributes to systemic inflammation. This study explored whether periodontitis is associated with serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels in heart transplant patients. The study included 33 patients who had undergone heart transplantation at Baskent University Hospital. Clinical periodontal parameters were recorded, and blood samples were collected on the same day to measure serum hs-CRP.