Chemokines, MMP-9 and PMN elastase in spontaneous sputum of sulfur mustard exposed civilians: Sardasht-Iran Cohort Study

► Sputum levels of fractalkine were significantly lower in Hospitalized group than serum levels. ► Serum levels of PMN-elastase were significantly higher in Hospitalized group. ► Serum levels of fractalkine and MMP-9 were higher in the severe (grade 3-4) group. ► There is no correlation between sputum and serum levels of these factors and lung complications in SM exposed group. ► Data represents that pathophysiologic process other than COPD may be involved in SM exposed patients.