Purpose: To determine the concentration of interleukins (IL-1β and -6) and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (pro-MMP-9) in the tears of patients with different ocular surface diseases and to examine the possible relationship between the disorders and molecular inflammation. Methods: 77 patients diagnosed as having different ocular surface disorders and 18 normal control subjects were studied. Patients were routinely examined and separated into 5 groups: (1) control, (2) blepharitis, (3) ocular allergic disease, (4) dry eye and (5) conjunctivochalasis. Ten microliters of tears were collected by a Weck cell sponge. The concentrations of IL-1β, IL-6 and pro-MMP-9 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the MMP-9 activity was evaluated with gelatin zymography. Results: Levels of IL-1β and IL-6 in tear fluid were significantly higher in conjunctivochalasis (p = 0.0062 and p = 0.0134) than in the control group. Pro-MMP-9 levels were significantly elevated in blepharitis (p = 0.013), in allergic eye disease, in dry eye and in conjunctivochalasis (all p < 0.001), in comparison to controls. Conclusions: Pro-MMP-9 levels in tears are elevated in all of the studied pathologies especially in ocular allergy and conjunctivochalasis. However, IL-1β and IL-6 were only found to be overexpressed in conjunctivochalasis. These findings illustrate the selective implication of different molecules in each disorder.

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This technique permits a homogeneous and safe lamellar dissection, which may prove useful in specific surgical procedures of the cornea.