Cluster of differentiation 44 and matrix metalloproteinase 2 markers: A prospective study and insight to their role in bladder cancer

INTRODUCTION: Cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44), a transmembrane glycoprotein and Matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), a gelatinase enzyme have been implicated in several malignancies for their role in prognostication and diagnosis. We, therefore, made an effort to use these markers in urothelial malignancies and discuss their importance along with review of the literature. METHODS: A prospective study conducted for 1 year using light microscopy and immunohistochemistry for CD44 and MMP2. RESULTS: CD44 showed concordance with low-grade tumors while MMP 2 was found to show positivity in high-grade tumors. Score 3 in CD44 expression was seen exclusively (100%) in low-grade tumors while similar score of MMP2 expression was seen in 90.9% of high-grade tumors. CONCLUSION: CD44 and MMP2 expression can, therefore, serve as an important tool to predict the clinical behavior and prognosis in patients of urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. The management and survival rate varies according to grade; hence, these markers can be used for prognostication of disease