Potential role of matrix metalloproteinase-2,-9 and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-1,-2 in exudative pleural effusions

Abstract

Determination of TIMP-2 in pleural fluid may contribute to differentiate TP from MP. These results suggest that overproduction of MMP-9 and TIMP-2 is associated with accumulation of the pleural effusion in malignancy. Further studies with a greater number of patients are needed to confirm this hypothesis.