The Serum Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Lever And Significance In Rheumatoid Arthritis

Objective To investigate serum matrix metalloproteinase -9(MMP-9) level and significance in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, that may provide new method for diagnosis and therapy. Methods MMP-9 serum level was tested by ELISA in 50 patients with RA and 18 controls. The serum levels of AKA, APF, ESR, RF, anti-CCP and hand X-ray were examined at the same time. Result Significantly increased serum level of MMP-9 was found in RA patients as compared to that in healthy controls(P<0.001).Serum level of MMP-9 was higher in active patients than those with inactive disease(P<0.001)..Serum level of MMP-9 after treatment was lower than before treatment(P<0.01).MMP-9 level was positively correlated with the number of the affected joints,X-ray stage,DAS and ESR level;but had no obvious corelation with age,the disease course,length of morning stiffness,stage of function and RF,AKA,APF,anti-CCP levels. Conclution The present data suggests that the level of MMP-9 is high in patients with RAo The level of MMP-9 may be more a marker of disease activity than of joint damage. we can choose MMP-9 as a potentially useful laboratory marker in RA.