INTRODUCTION: A chronic infection in periapical tissue can trigger a periapical lesion due to stimulation and proliferation of epithelial rests of Malassez. On microscopic study, it is possible to detect the presence of clefts of cholesterol crystals within cysts and granulomas. According to some studies, the source of cholesterol inside the periapice lesions may be partially due to the condensation and crystallization of cholesterol in the cyst wall. Yet another part, can be derived metabolic products local or vascular circulation. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the clefts of cholesterol crystals found in periapical lesions and cholesterol levels in the blood circulation. MATERIAL AND METHOD: An observational study of a descriptive nature that included 70 patients with periapical lesions (according to radiographic examination) at the Department of Dentistry, Federal University of Sergipe. These patients underwent extraction of the affected tooth unit and removal of the periapical lesion, and this number sent for pathological examination. At the same query was asked a lipid profile to assess rates of serum cholesterol of patients. RESULT: Clefts of cholesterol crystals were present only in cysts (larger than 1.5 cm in diameter, approximately), and therefore older. CONCLUSION: The presence of cholesterol crystals is rare in periapical lesions. The study suggests a relationship between the presence of cholesterol crystals and the rate of cholesterol serum levels in large and old injuries.
Radicular cyst; periapical granuloma; cholesterol