Understanding Gingival Crevicular Fluid (GCF): Its Role in Inflammation and Diagnosis

Understanding Gingival Crevicular Fluid (GCF): Its Role in Inflammation and Diagnosis

Host Response Basic Concept

GCF is an inflammatory exudate. Justify?
Answer. Waerhaug, Brill and Krasse (1950) introduced fiter paper in the gingival sulci of dogs that had previously been injected IM with florescein, within 3 minutes florescent material was recovered on the paper strips. This indicated a passage of fluid from the bloodstream through the tissues and exiting via the gingival sulcus.

• Brill (1959, 1969) confirmed the presence of GCF in humans and considered it a transudate. Brill technique places paper strips into the pocket until resistance is encountered. This method introduces a degree of irritation of the sulcular epithelium that can by itself trigger the oozing of the fluid.
• Protective effect of gingival fluid was suggested by Brill (1959) using charcoal and bacteria Serratia marcescens. Serratia marcescens and Flavobacterium Lutescens are chromogenic organisms responsible for orange stains on both facial and lingual surfaces of anterior teeth, Substances that can penetrate sulcular epithelium include albumin, endotoxin, thymine, histamine, phenytoin and horseradish peroxidase this indicates that GCF is an inflammatory exudate.