Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: To analyze the expression and cellular distribution of leukocyte adhesion molecules in ocular rosacea, and to elucidate any difference in expression of adhesion molecules in diseased and in normal human conjunctiva. Methods: A panel of monoclonal antibodies against to VCAM-1, VLA-4, ICAM-1, LFA-1, and E-Selectin were utilized to perform immunochistochemical staining on frozen sections cryo-preserved human conjunctiva. Conjunctival biopsy specimens were obtained from 15 patients with rosacea and from 15 healthy individuals undergoing cataract surgery. Results: The expression of LFA-1 and its ligand ICAM-1 was significantly higher on connective tissue cells within the substantial propria in rosacea patients compared to healthy individuals. ICAM-1 expression was present on the vascular endothelium in most patients. VCAM-1 expression was significantly up-regulated in rosacea patients in comparison to normals and showed a perivascular cellular distribution. Expression of VLA-4 and E-Selectin was noted only in rosacea patients. Conclusions: The simultaneous and continued over-expression of the studied adhesion molecules in rosacea patients suggests that their interaction may contribute to a sustained immune response as at least part of the pathologic mechanism of this disorder.
Keywords: 366 conjunctivitis • 339 cell adhesions/cell junctions • 434 immunohistochemistry