[Immunohistochemical detection of enhanced deposition of isoprostane 8-epi-PGF2alpha in vascular lesions of temporal arteritis].

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Oxidative injury caused by lipid oxidation is considered a major factor in the development of several ocular disorders including temporal arteritis. This study investigates the role of 8-epi-PGF2alpha as a marker of oxidative stress in vivo.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sections from isolated human temporal arteries, obtained from patients suspected of having giant cell arteritis ( n=22), were analyzed by semiquantitative immunohistochemistry and planimetry.

RESULTS

Immunoreactivity for 8-epi-PGF2alpha was significantly higher in patients with temporal arteritis (AT) compared to healthy temporal arteries (Co). The percentage of the areas stained positive in immunohistochemistry was higher in the AT group compared to the control group (Co). The enrichment values in the intimal layer containing the endothelium of the same temporal arteries were also significantly higher ( p<0.01) in temporal arteries of the AT group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings of an enhanced accumulation of 8-epi-PGF2alpha in areas of the arterial wall subjected to extensive vascular tissue destruction suggest that lipid peroxidation products may also play a role in the pathogenesis of this disease.