DETERMINATION OF CHROMOSOMIC INSTABILITY AND CELL DEATH IN MUCAL MUCOSA CELLS IN PATIENTS WITH COGNITIVE DISABILITY

Abstract

The application of the micronucleus (MN) test, using exfoliated cells from the oral cavity, is widely used in the biomonitoring of precancerous oral lesions, taking into account that the oral cavity may reflect the health of individuals. This research sought to determine chromosomal instability and cell death in oral mucosa cells in patients with cognitive impairment treated at a dental reference service for people with intellectual disabilities and autism in Teresina-PI. This is a qualitative and quantitative sample study that aims to collect and analyze data on biological material. The sample included 30 individuals without gender restriction, with attendance records from May 2017 to January 2019, who returned for routine oral reevaluation. A matched control group of normosystemic patients was also approached (n = 30), after signing the Informed Consent Form (ICF). The results showed that the frequency of MN, as well as other cellular changes, were higher in patients with cognitive impairment and that these findings may be related to underlying diseases. It is concluded that the application of the MN test can be fundamental in these patients to detect the damage in chromosomal DNA and predict the risks for oral cancer, but it is essential that there is an expansion of studies in this area as a way to bring improvements in quality. their lives, in order to contribute to the improvement of prevention measures.