Oral Neutrophil Count as a Marker for Myocardial Infarction: A Cross-sectional Study

serves as a reservoir of inflammatory mediators and immune cells, including neutrophils, which can contribute to systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction.6 These findings highlight a compelling link between oral health and cardiovascular pathology, suggesting that oral biomarkers may provide insight into cardiovascular risk.Neutrophils, the most abundant circulating leukocytes, form the first line of defense against pathogens but also contribute IntroductIonCardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the foremost cause of morbidit y and mor talit y worldwide, accounting for nearly one-third of global deaths each year. 1 Among these, myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the most serious acute cardiovascular events, contributing significantly to premature mortality and long-term disability.The global burden of MI is reflected in mortality rates of approximately 210.9 deaths per 1,00,000 population, underscoring the urgent need for improved strategies in prevention, early diagnosis, and timely intervention.2 The underlying pathophysiology of MI is closely tied to atherosclerosis and its inflammatory sequelae.Traditionally considered a disease of lipid accumulation, atherosclerosis is now well recognized as a chronic inflammatory condition in which immune cells, cytokines, and vascular endothelium interact to drive plaque development and instability.3 Plaque rupture, followed by platelet activation and thrombus formation, ultimately precipitates vessel occlusion and myocardial ischemia.The inflammatory response plays a dual role in this process: while it is crucial for tissue repair and healing, excessive or dysregulated inflammation can exacerbate myocardial injury and accelerate adverse outcomes.4 In recent years, growing attention has been directed toward the potential role of the oral cavity in systemic inflammatory diseases, including CVD.Periodontal disease, one of the most prevalent chronic infections, has been associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular events.5 Mechanistically, the oral cavity