Tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin 6 in human periapical lesions.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in human periapical lesions.

Subjects And Methods: Samples were obtained from three groups of teeth: symptomatic teeth, asymptomatic lesions, and uninflamed periradicular tissues as a control.

Results: TNF-alpha levels were significantly increased in symptomatic lesions compared to control.