ABSTRACT
To analyze the clinical significance of measurement of serum matrix metalloproteinase-3 [MMP-3] levels in relation to systemic markers of inflammation, functional status, disease activity parameters and degree of joint damage assessed radiologically in patients with rheumatoid arthritis [RA]. Forty adult patients with RA and 10 healthy controls had serum samples tested with indirect sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for MMP-3. Patients were assessed clinically for Ritchie articular index score [RAI], Steinbrocker score, Health Assessment Questionnaire [HAQ], Disease activity score including a 28-joint count [DAS 28] and Chronic arthritis systemic index [CASI]. Then, plain radiograph of both hands and feet were obtained and the mdified Larsen score was used to assess joint damage. Recent C-reactive protein [CRP] and erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR] were recorded. MMP-3 level in RA patients was significantly higher than that in the control group [p=0.043]. Serum levels of MMP-3 show significant correlation with disease duration, CRP, ESR, Steinbrocker score, DAS 28 and modified Larsen score [in the two subgroups of patients: erosive and non-erosive]. No correlation was found between MMP-3 levels and patients' age, RAI, HAQ or CASI. MMP-3 is a single variable that correlates with disease activity and seems to be useful for early diagnosis and follow-up of patients with RA