Crevicular Fluid
The serum-like fluid that seeps into the gingival sulcus from the surrounding connective tissue, used as a diagnostic marker for periodontal inflammation.
Full Definition
Crevicular fluid, formally termed gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), is an inflammatory exudate found in the sulcus between the tooth and the surrounding gingival tissue. Its volume and composition change significantly in the presence of periodontal disease, making it a valuable biomarker. Editors working on clinical research manuscripts must distinguish GCF from saliva, as conflating them misrepresents study methodology. The term appears frequently in periodontology and implant dentistry literature. It is sometimes hyphenated as 'gingival-crevicular fluid' in older texts, but current style favours the open compound.
Usage
Usage note: Always spell out in full on first use; GCF is acceptable on subsequent references in the same document.
In Context
- "Elevated levels of interleukin-1β in the crevicular fluid were recorded at baseline and at four weeks post-treatment." — Clinical research article
- "The clinician collected crevicular fluid samples using standardised paper strips placed at the gingival margin." — Case study report