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2020 OMIG Abstract

Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 Positivity Predicts Long Term Decreased Tear Production

Matias Soifer^1,2, Hazem M Mousa^1,2, Sandra S. Stinnett², Anat Galor, MD^3,4, and Victor L. Perez, MD^1,2
1Foster Center for Ocular Immunology, Duke Eye Institute, Durham, NC; ²Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; ³Miami Veterans Administration Medical Center, Miami, FL;
⁴Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL

Purpose: To investigate long-term correlations between Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) testing and dry eye (DE) parameters. Additionally, to evaluate variability in MMP-9 results over time and with anti-inflammatory treatment.

Methods:: Retrospective cohort study of DE patients with equal MMP-9 testing results (positive or negative) in both eyes and a minimum of 6 months of follow up. Our main outcome measure was to examine whether initial MMP-9 status affected change in DE parameters over time. Secondarily, we evaluated the frequency of MMP-9 status change over time and examined whether it was impacted by treatment.

Results: 67 patients (76% female) fit the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 63 years with a mean follow up of 10.6 months. The majority (55%) had concomitant systemic immune disease. MMP-9 testing was positive in both eyes in 39 individuals (58%) and negative in both eyes in 27 (42%) Individuals in the MMP-9 positive group had a greater decrease in production from baseline to final visit compared to the negative group (-2.6 vs 2.1, P=0.013). In those initially MMP-9 positive, the frequency of becoming MMP-9 negative was higher in eyes treated with anti-inflammatory therapy compared to artificial tears (22.9% vs 3.3%, P=0.106). However, only Lifitegrast 5% showed statistical significance compared to artificial tears (31.3% vs 3.3%, P=0.044).

Conclusion: Eyes with detectable MMP-9 had significantly decreased tear production over time compared to those without detectable MMP-9. Anti-inflammatory treatment more frequently normalized MMP-9 compared to PFATs.

Disclosure: N (M Soifer, HM Mousa, S Stinnett); C: (A Galor, Novaliq, Dompe, Novartis) (VL Perez, Alcon, Eyegate, Novaliq, Trefoil, Quidel); O: (VL Perez, OBTears)

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