Matrix metalloproteinase-1 serum level in association with the occurrence of striae distensae

Abstract

Introduction: Striae distensae are fine atrophic scar tissue on the skin. They are formed on areas with dermal collagen rupture due to excessive stretching of the skin. Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) is an enzyme that degrades collagen types I and III. An imbalance in the expression of MMP-1 and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), cytokine that trigger the synthesis of new collagen, leads to imperfect dermis remodeling process in atrophic scar tissue, which is a clinical appearance of striae distensae. This study aimed to determine the association between serum MMP-1 level and striae distensae. Methods: We conducted an observational cross-sectional study on 40 females with striae distensae and 40 controls. History taking, physical and dermatological examination, followed by blood sampling analysis of serum MMP-1 level with ELISA method were conducted in all subjects. Results: The mean serum MMP-1 levels in the striae distensae group were 51.54±28.03 ng/dL. All subjects in the striae distensae group had striae albae and only 7 subjects (17.5%) had striae rubrae. The most common location of striae distensae is the combination of femoral and gluteus regions (25%). The results of this study showed a relationship between high MMP-1 levels and the risk of striae distensae by 4.89 times (p = 0.002). Conclusion: There was an association between serum MMP-1 levels and striae distensae.