Abstract
Purpose::
To determine the expression of CD30 molecule in pterygium and normal conjunctiva.
Methods::
The expression of CD30 molecule was determined in pterygium biposies and compared with those in normal conjunctival specimens. To identify CD30 protein we performed specific immunohystochemistry assays and observed by light microscopy.
Results::
We included 10 biopsies of primary pterygium and 7 of normal conjunctiva. Immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of CD30 molecule in 90% of pterygium biopsies, the intensity stain was as follows: low in 5 (50%), moderate in 3 (30%) and intense in 1 (10%). Predominant pattern was granular in basal epithelium and stroma. Six of the seven (85.7%) healthy conjuntivas were negative to CD30 immunoreaction.
Conclusions::
As it has been reported that CD30 molecule is involved in the inhibition of apoptosis and promoting cell proliferation, these results suggest that the expression of CD 30 molecule might be involved in the mechanisms which perpetuate the chronicity in pterygium.This Study was supported partially by Fundacion de Asistencia Privada Conde De Valenciana and CONACyT SALUD-2005-14108
Keywords: Pterygium • protein structure/function • cell survival