Systemic Dilation Diathesis in Patients with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: A Role for Matrix Metalloproteinase-9?

The CCA diameter was larger in AAA patients compared to AOD patients. MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio was associated with decreased distensibility and compliance of the suprarenal aorta. These data support the idea that AAA patients exhibit a systemic dilation diathesis, which might be attributable to MMP/TIMP imbalances.