Serum Matrix Metalloproteinases in Patients With Different Types of Cutis Laxa: A Case Series Publisher



Ebadi A¹ ; Malekzad F¹ ; Khorramizadeh M² ; Kariminejad A³ ; Shahabipour F¹ ; Robati RM^{1, 4}
Source: Iranian Journal of Dermatology Published:2022

Abstract

Cutis laxa (CL) is a connective tissue disease that is either inherited or acquired. It is characterized by redundant, pendulous, and inelastic skin. Loss of elasticity is a pathological feature of some degenerative and inflammatory diseases. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) can cleave elastin fibers by damaging the microfibrils and the elastin core, resulting in the loss of elasticity. n this study, we report eight patients with different types of cutis laxa along with the quantitative measurement of serum levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9. The cutis laxa patients showed various clinical and histopathological findings, indicating the heterogeneity of this rare skin connective tissue disease. The serum level of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were elevated in these patients. Increased MMP-2 and MMP-9 might be associated with cutis laxa. However, our findings need to be validated in larger clinical settings. © 2022 Iranian Society of Dermatology.