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Blepharochalasis: possibly associated with matrix metalloproteinases.
Sei-ichiro Motegi1, Akihiko Uchiyama, Kazuya Yamada
1Department of Dermatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan.
The Journal of Dermatology
|May 13, 2014
Summary
Blepharochalasis involves recurrent eyelid swelling and skin atrophy. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) may contribute to this rare condition, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Blepharochalasis is a rare disorder of the eyelids.
- Its pathogenesis, particularly the role of immunological mechanisms in elastic fiber degradation, is not well understood.
Observation:
- A case of a 10-year-old Japanese boy with an 11-month history of recurrent, non-painful eyelid swelling and erythema is presented.
- The swelling episodes lasted 2-3 days and were associated with progressive atrophic skin changes.
Findings:
- Histological examination revealed lymphocytic infiltration in the dermis and a significant decrease in dermal elastic fibers.
- Immunofluorescence studies were negative, but matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 and MMP-9 were detected in dermal infiltrating cells.
Implications:
- Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-3 and MMP-9 may play a role in the pathogenesis of blepharochalasis.
- Inhibitors of MMPs could represent a potential therapeutic strategy for blepharochalasis.
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