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Angiogenesis in pterygium: morphometric and immunohistochemical study.
Arie L Marcovich1, Yair Morad, Judith Sandbank
1Department of Ophthalmology, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, Israel.
Current Eye Research
|January 9, 2003
Summary
This study found increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and new blood vessels in pterygium tissue, suggesting angiogenesis plays a role in its formation. This research highlights potential therapeutic targets for pterygium.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Angiogenesis Research
- Pathogenesis Studies
Background:
- Pterygium is a common ocular surface condition.
- The role of angiogenesis in pterygium development is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of angiogenesis in pterygium pathogenesis.
- To compare the expression of von-Willebrand factor (vWF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in pterygium versus normal conjunctiva.
Main Methods:
- Human pterygium and conjunctiva samples (n=23) were analyzed.
- Immunohistochemical staining for vWF and VEGF was performed.
- Quantification of microvessel density, VEGF staining intensity, and cell counts.
Main Results:
- Pterygium tissue showed significantly higher vWF and VEGF positive microvascular counts compared to normal conjunctiva (P = 0.0012).
- Elevated VEGF staining intensity and positive cell counts were observed in pterygium epithelial, stromal, and endothelial cells (P < 0.0001).
Conclusions:
- Over-expression of VEGF and abundant vWF-positive new vessels in pterygium support the role of angiogenesis in its formation.
- These findings suggest that angiogenesis is a key factor in pterygium pathogenesis.