Increased Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinase9 in Squamous cell carcinoma of Head & Neck and its significance.

Objectives: To investigate the expression & significance of MMP 9 in SCC of head & neck.
Methods: 46 patients with SCC were included in study. Clinical and gross findings including age, gender, site and presentation of tumor had been recorded. Expression of MMP9 in all samples was examined by immunohistohistochemistry. Expression intensity & proportions were recorded.

Results: The mean age was 52.74 ±14.144 years, male to female ratio was 1.4:1. Most common presenting complaint was non healing ulcer present in 77.7%, fungating mass 17.3% and plaque in 5% cases. Most common site involved is buccal mucosa in 50% cases. Out of 46 cases 60.9% were well differentiated, among these 14.28% show week & 85.71% show moderate staining intensity at tumour invasive front. 32.6% were moderately differentiated, among these 13.33% show weak, 60% moderate & 26.66% show strong staining intensity at tumour invasive front. Only 6.5% were poorly differentiated with 66.66% showing moderate while 33.33% showing strong staining intensity.

Conclusions: MMP9 may play an important role in the development, progression, invasion & metastasis of SCC of head & neck.