BIOLOGICAL MARKERS OF MMP-8 (MATRIX METALLOPROTEINASE 8) AND TIMP-1 (TISSUE INHIBITOR OF METALLOPROTEINASES 1) IN THE ORAL FLUID IN VARIOUS FORMS OF LICHEN PLANUS AND THEIR ROLE IN ASSESSING THE CLINICAL COURSE OF THE DISEASE

Abstract

Early detection of tumor transformation of lichen planus presents a real challenge, since squamous cell carcinoma can develop both from unchanged epithelium, and against the background of inflammatory or precancerous lesions. Another aspect of untimely diagnosis is the unfavorable long-term prognosis of lichen planus, so after complex treatment, 50% of patients have a relapse: 80% — within 2 years and 20% — within 4 years. The aim of this study was to analyze the levels of MMP-8, TIMP-1 and their ratio of MP-8/TIMP-1 in the oral fluid of patients with varied forms of lichen planus. We examined and treated 24 women (35–70 years old). 14 women with oral lichen planus of the mucosa in a typical form were assigned to Group 1; 10 patients with an exudative-hyperemic form - Group 2. Concentrations of the biological markers MMP-8 and TIMP-1 were determined in the oral fluid before and after treatment. Results of the study showed that to assess the severity of oral lichen planus it is essential to evaluate concentration ratio of biological markers MMP-8/TIMP-1 in mixed saliva. Dynamic changes in MMP-8/TIMP-1 levels should be monitored at least once in a quarter.