ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the role of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) in the transformation of subdural effusion into chronic subdural hematoma. METHODS: The clinical data of 8 patients with subdural effusion that transformed into chronic subdural hematoma were collected and MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels were detected in the sudural effusion, chronic subdural hematoma and capsules of hematoma using gelatin-zymography. RESULTS: MMP-2 and MMP-9 increased significantly in chronic subdural hematoma as compared with those in subdural effusion (P<0.01), and their levels were also significantly higher in the outer membrane than in the inner membrane of hematoma. CONCLUSION: Subdural effusion is a risk factor for the occurrence of chronic subdural hematoma, in which process MMP plays a role as the promoting factor acting primarily in the outer membrane of the hematoma.
