Cord Blood Matrix Metalloproteinase - 9 as Predictor of Respiratory Outcome in Preterm Infants

Background: Preterm birth is an emerging global public health problem. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a main contributor to increased mortality and morbidity among premature infants. Matrix metalloproteinase dysregulation contributes to the pathology of chronic and acute lung disorders, including bronchopulmonary dysplasia, RDS of newborn, asthma and emphysema. AIM: To evaluate the value of cord blood matrix metalloproteinase-9 for prediction of respiratory outcome in preterm neonates. METHODS: Sixty nine preterm neonates are included in this study; 40 of them had developed RDS while 29 did not developed RDS. Cord blood level of MMP-9 was estimated. We investigated the correlation between MMP-9, gestational age and severity of RDS in preterm neonates. RESULTS: Levels of cord blood MMP-9 were 2.92 ± 2.315 ng/ml & 6.12 ± 4.14 ng/ml in patients with and without RDS respectively. MMP-9 was significantly lower in patients developed RDS than those without RDS (p<0.001). MMP-9 level had positive correlation with gestational age. CONCLUSIONS: Cord blood MMP-9 is a promising novel biomarker which could reflect lung immaturity and identify the severity of RDS in preterm neonates.