The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and
interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) among stroke survivors in relation to
the oral hygiene status and stroke characteristics. Methods: A multi-centre cross-sectional
study was conducted among hospitalised stroke survivors. Socio-demographic data were
collected. Oral clinical assessment (dental plaque scores) and functional dependency levels
scores were carried out. Gingival Crevicular Fluids were collected, using absorbent papers
and analysed using ELISA kit. Descriptive statistic and correlation analyses were performed
using proportion and Spearmen correlation coefficient test. Results: A total of 53 patients were
recruited from five public hospitals. There was a significant correlation between CRP and IL-6
levels of GCF (P=0.021, r=0.21). A significant correlation was also observed between CRP
levels in GCF with dental plaque scores and functional dependency levels. There was no
statistically significant correlation found between IL-6 levels in GCF with dental plaque scores
and functional dependency levels. Dental plaque scores were associated with high levels of
CRP in GCF (P=0.014), and swallowing problem was associated with high levels of IL-6 in
GCF (P=0.002). Conclusions: IL-6 levels in GCF were correlated with the levels of CRP in
GCF. High CRP and IL-6 levels in GCF were significantly associated with dental plaque scores
and swallowing condition (presence of dysphagia), respectively. Thus, this pilot study suggests
that CRP level in the oral cavity respond to the oral health conditions and may not be a
predictor factor of stroke outcomes. Further studies are warranted to compare the level of
inflammatory biomarkers from the oral cavity and serum in relation to the stroke conditions and
outcomes.