The inter-relation between epithelial cells of Malassez and vessels studied immunohistochemically in the periodontal membrane of human primary and permanent teeth

Background. Only few immunohistochemical studies have focused on the periodontal membrane in human primary teeth. Recently, studies on epithelial cells of Malassez and innervation have been published. Studies on the inter-relation between vessels and the epithelial cells of Malassez are seemingly lacking. Aim. The aim of this immunohistochemical study is to describe the histological inter-relation between epithelial cells of Malassez and vessels in the periodontal membrane close to the root surface of human primary and permanent teeth. Methods. Twenty-nine human primary teeth and 15 permanent teeth were extracted in connection with dental treatment. The teeth were fixated, embedded in paraffin, cut in serial sections and examined immunohistochemically for epithelial cells of Malassez using wide spectrum screening and vessels using Von Willebrand Factor VIII. Results. The study showed that vessels and epithelial cells of Malassez are seen parallel to the root surface. The vessels are seen on that side of the epithelial cells of Malassez, which are not facing the root surface. Conclusion. The vascularization appeared similar in primary and permanent teeth.