ABSTRACT
Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the salivary flow rate and gustatory changes
in HIV-positive patients on highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) and without
HAART. We also correlated CD4 count and salivary flow rate and gustatory function
in both groups. Methods: Sample size for each group was thirty. After obtaining informed consent, we measured
salivary flow rate using Schimer's method and gustatory function using four tastants
(sweet, sour, bitter, and salty) of different concentrations. The readings were recorded
at 0 month, 2nd, 4th, and 6th month interval. The data obtained was statistically analyzed. Results: The mean salivary flow rate was decreased more in Group I as compared to Group II.
The mean identification score for sweet, salty, sour, and bitter was significantly
higher in Group II than Group I. The mean detection threshold score for sweet, salty,
sour and bitter taste was comparatively higher in Group I than Group II. The Pearson's
correlation analysis showed inverse relation between age and salivary flow rate in
Group II. No significant correlation was observed in CD4 count and salivary flow rate.
Conclusion: Along with routine oral health appraisal in seropositive patients, evaluation of
salivary flow rate, and taste abnormalities should also be considered an integral
part of patient assessment.
Key words:
Gustatory function - highly active anti-retroviral therapy - salivary flow rate -
seropositive patients