Background: Saliva is a complex secretion produced daily by the
salivary glands. Saliva consists mainly of water, enzymes, ions and
amino acids and performs several important functions in oral health.
Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the flow rate and
concentrations of amylase and total proteins in the saliva of
hospitalized patients due to AIDS complications. Methods: Ninety-three
men and women (20-64 years of age) were divided into two groups (46
HIV-infected patients and 47 controls) and had salivary flow rate and
levels of amylase enzyme and total proteins evaluated. Results: The
mean salivary flow rate was lower in individuals with HIV when compared
to controls (P < 0.05). No significant difference between amylase
enzyme levels and total proteins were observed in the saliva of
patients with HIV infection when compared to controls. Conclusion:
Individuals with HIV / AIDS infection (in hospital treatment) suffer no
interference in levels of amylase and total salivary proteins, but they
have significantly reduced salivary flow