BACKGROUNDMatrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), endostatin (ES) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are important angiogenic regulators for many neoplasms. The aim of this study is to judge clinical and prognostic values of detection of serum MMP-9, ES and VEGF in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODSSerum levels of MMP-9, ES and VEGF were detected in 92 patients with NSCLC, 50 patients with pulmonary benign disease and 52 healthy controls by ELISA method.

RESULTSThe serum levels of MMP-9, ES and VEGF in NSCLC patients were significantly higher than those in patients with pulmonary benign disease and healthy controls (P=0.000, P=0.000, P=0.000). The sensitivity and specificity of serum MMP-9 was 92.51% and 79.10% with a cutoff value of 117.17 μg/L, 88.32% and 74.25% for ES with a cutoff value of 100.31 μg/L, and 83.40% and 75.63% for VEGF with a cutoff value of 380.32 ng/L. Serum MMP-9 and ES levels were significant prognostic factors for lung cancer patients (P=0.0145, P=0.008). The change of serum MMP-9 level after chemotherapy was a useful indicator of prognosis for NSCLC patients (P=0.0322).

CONCLUSIONSThe serum levels of MMP-9, ES and VEGF are significantly increased in patients with NSCLC. They might be used as prognostic parameters in patients with NSCLC.