Morphometric evaluation of periapical lesions in rats

Abstract

Objective: To compare bone volume, periodontal ligament thickness, bone density, and inflammatory infiltrate in apical processes of endodontic origin in Wistar rats.

Methodology:Three groups of 7 animals each were used. Group 1: no pulp exposure, but with periapical lesion; Groups 2 and 3: the first lower molar was exposed without obturation, resulting in the development of apical lesions of 7 and 10 days of progression, respectively. After the experimental periods (7 and 10 days), the animals were euthanized along with the control group, and their mandibles were extracted. These were evaluated using micro-computed tomography and histology to determine bone density, changes in bone trabeculae, and the presence and characteristicsof inflammatory infiltrate, respectively.

Results: A decrease in bone volume, bone density, and periodontal ligament thickness was observed in the periapical area of experimental rats compared to controls. There was also an increase in lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate in the lesion area.

Conclusions: Periapical osteolytic lesions of endodontic origin reach optimal characteristics for study after 10 days of progression.