Matrix Metalloproteinase Levels in Cervical and Intracranial Carotid Dolichoarteriopathies

BackgroundMatrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes suggested as a possible candidate for pathogenesis of arterial dolichoarteriopathy (DA). We aimed to investigate the relationship between MMP levels and DA of intra- and extracranial carotid arteries.MethodsThis study included 88 subjects admitted with headache, vertigo, or pulsatile tinnitus and those who underwent computed tomography angiography. The study group (n = 70) consisted of patients with kink–coiling (group I, n = 41) and patients with tortuosity (group II, n = 29). The control group (n = 18) had normal angiography results. The diameter, course, and geometry of the carotid artery were analyzed. Serum MMP-1, -2, -3, and -12 levels were measured in all subjects. Vascular risk factors for DA were also noted.ResultsMMP-2 levels were significantly higher in the kink–coiling and tortuous groups than in the control group. In the study group (n = 70), MMP-12 levels were also significantly higher in patients with atheromatous plaques than in those without plaques. Diameters of arteries were meaningfully wider in the kink and tortuous groups than in the control group. Among vascular risk factors, hypertension and diabetes mellitus were more common in the kink group than in the control group, and there were significant differences between them.ConclusionsMMP-2 plays a role in the etiology of DA, and MMP-12 levels increase in carotid atherosclerotic lesions and may lead to plaque formation. We demonstrated that dilatation and tortuosity occur together.