Increased serum matrix metalloproteinase 9 levels in systemic lupus erythematosus patients with neuropsychiatric manifestations and brain magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities

Abstract

Elevated levels of serum MMP-9 in patients with SLE may reflect neuropsychiatric involvement, particularly cognitive dysfunction. The serum MMP-9 concentration may be associated with small- vessel cerebral vasculopathy and increased risk of cerebral ischemic events in patients with SLE.