Matrix metalloproteinase-9 in the blood of acne patients: The possible use of matrix metalloproteinase-9 as a biomarker of acne severity

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this study was to study the blood level of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in acne patients and its relation to disease severity. Background The possible use of MMP-9 as a biomarker of acne severity. Patients and methods This case–control study was conducted on 45 patients with acne vulgaris collected from the Dermatology Outpatient Clinic in Menoufia University Hospital with age ranging from 18 to 25 years. The study was done during the period from June 2018 to January 2019. Acne grading was performed according to the Global Acne Grading System. Twenty normal controls matched for age and sex were included. Detailed history and clinical exa mination were carried out to exclude patients with hyperproliferative skin disorders such as psoriasis and lichen planus, patients with bullous diseases, therapy. MMP-9 was measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method for patients and controls and the results were statistically analyzed and tabulated. Results The level of MMP-9 recorded significant elevation when compared with normal control level. In addition, a significant difference was obtained when comparing its level among mild, moderate, and severe cases. There was also an association between its level and the number of regions with inflammatory pustules and nodules but not with scars. Conclusion MMP-9 can be used in the future as a biomarker of acne severity to choose the best treatment modalities.