Angiogenesis and the Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinase are Related with Lymph Node Metastasis in Breast Carcinoma

Objective 　To determine the expressions of vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and microvascular density(MVD) in breast carcinoma tissue and investigate their associations with invasion and metastasis. Methods 　The expressions of VEGF, MMP-9 and CD34 were examined in 75 cases of breast carcinoma including 39 cases with lymph node metastasis and 36 cases without lymph node metastasis by immunohistochemist ry. The relationship between these expressions and prognosis was analyzed by Multivariable Cox proportional hazards model. Results 　The expressions of VEGF, MMP-9 and MVD in lymph node metastasis group and in no lymph node metastasis group were significantly different ( P < 0. 05) . Patient s of the low MVD average group had longer survival time. Conclusion 　Expressions of VEGF, MMP29 and MVD are st rongly associated with lymph node metastasis of breast carcinoma. The expressions of these proteins are indicators of metastasis and predictors for prognosis of breast carcinoma.