Matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression in pterygium.
OBJECTIVE
To assess matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 expression in pterygium lesion.


METHODS
A prospective randomized clinical trial was done to evaluate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase in normal and in primary or recurrent pterygia in Tenon's capsule by immunohistochemical analysis and a computerized image analysis system. The data were submitted to statistical analysis.


RESULTS
Matrix metalloproteinase expression showed no difference in normal Tenon's capsule and in primary or recurrent pterygia.


CONCLUSIONS
The similar expression of the matrix metalloproteinase in normal Tenon's capsule and in primary or recurrent pterygia allowed us to conclude that matrix metalloproteinase is not implicated in the genesis or the recurrence of pterygium lesion.
Schellini
Silvana Artioli
SA
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculdade de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil. sartioli@fmb.unesp.br
Hoyama
Erika
E
Oliveira
Deilson Elgui
DE
Bacchi
Carlos Eduardo
CE
Padovani
Carlos Roberto
CR
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D020780:Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 / Q000378:metabolism*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011625:Pterygium / Q000201:enzymology* / Q000601:surgery; D012008:Recurrence
D020780:Matrix Metalloproteinase 9