Expression and significance of COX-2 and VEGF in the tissue of adenomyosis

Abstract

Objective To discuss the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in adenomyosis and its clinical significance. Methods The expression of COX-2 and VEGF was examined by immunohistochemistry SP method, in ectopic endometrium and eutopic endometrium, compared with normal endometrium. Results (1) COX-2 expression in ectopic, eutopic endometrium with adenomyosis was significantly higher than that in control group (P<0.05). No statistically significant difference was found between ectopic endometrium and eutopic endometrium group with adenomyosis (P0.05).(2) VEGF expressions in ectopic, eutopic endometrium with adenomyosis were both significantly higher than that of control group (P<0.05); no statistically significant difference was found between ectopic endometrium and eutopic endometrium group (P0.05).(3) COX-2 and VEGF had the positive relativity in the ectopic endometriumal expression of adenomyosis patient (P<0.05). Conclusion COX-2 and VEGF may play a key role in adenomyosis. Both may have close relation in angiogenesis and may provide new targets for therapy of adenomyosis. Key words: Adenomyosis; Cyclooxygenase-2; Vascular endothelial growth factor; Uterus