%0 Journal Article %T Applicability of an active matrix metalloproteinase-8 point-of-care test in an oral and maxillofacial surgery clinic: a pilot study. %A Kallio E %A Puolakkainen T %A Tervahartiala T %A Snäll J %A Marttila E %A Sorsa T %A Uittamo J %J Odontology %V 112 %N 1 %D 2024 Jan 30 %M 37249720 %F 2.885 %R 10.1007/s10266-023-00821-0 %X OBJECTIVE: Matrix metalloproteinases are enzymes that participate in numerous inflammatory responses and have been targeted as biomarkers in numerous pathologic states. The detection of active matrix metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8) using a mouthrinse point-of-care test (POCT) has emerged as a diagnostic marker for periodontitis and other systemic inflammatory states. The objective of this pilot study was to assess the applicability of aMMP-8 POCT in an oral and maxillofacial surgery clinic and to evaluate the relationship between aMMP-8 levels and different patient groups.
METHODS: aMMP-8 POCT samples were collected from patients in an oral and maxillofacial surgery clinic during a one-month period. aMMP-8 levels were analyzed using a chairside lateral-flow immunotest and a digital reader. Clinically relevant patient variables were collected and descriptively evaluated. aMMP-8 levels over 20 ng/ml were considered to be elevated.
RESULTS: A total of 115 patients were interviewed of which 112 agreed to the test (97.4%). Elevated aMMP-8 levels were observed in 58 (51.8%) patients. Bone loss was noted in 75 (67.0%) patients. Of these patients, aMMP-8 levels were elevated in 47 (62.7%) patients. Patients at an increased risk of infection had 35.5% higher aMMP-8 values on average compared to patients with no prior illnesses.
CONCLUSIONS: aMMP-8 POCT provides a non-invasive and reliable method for measuring aMMP-8 levels. Future studies are warranted to assess the clinical relevance between elevated aMMP-8 levels and specific patient groups.
CONCLUSIONS: The rapid availability of the test score allows an immediate impact on treatment planning.