Chronic periodontitis impairs polymorphonuclear leucocyte-endothelium cell interactions and oxidative stress in humans.

In a systemic proinflammatory environment, PMNs from patients with CP exhibit hyperactivity and produce higher amounts of superoxide. In parallel with this, an increase in PMNs rolling flux and cell adhesion to the endothelium suggests the presence of alterations of PMN-endothelium interactions in patients with CP that can lead to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications.