Identification of Rheumatoid Factor in Periodontal Disease

R heumatoid factor (RF) was detected by latex‐slide agglutination in subgingival plaque, inflamed gingival tissue, stimulated pooled saliva and serum of patients suffering from chronic moderate periodontitis. The etiology of rheumatoid factor and its possible homeostatic role in periodontal disease are discussed, in relation to the reported association of Gram‐negative bacterial endotoxin and the chronic antigenic stimulating nature of periodontal disease.