Analysis of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein and matrix metalloproteinase-9 in cerebrospinal fluid of miniature dachshund with intervertebral disc herniation.

We evaluated whether the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentration of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) is related to disease severity, prognosis and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 activity of the CSF in miniature dachshund with intervertebral disc herniation. Samples were obtained from 23 patients and 6 normal dogs, and all patients received hemilaminectomy. Twenty dogs recovered successfully and 3 of 11 dogs without deep nociception had MMP-9 activity in the CSF and an unsuccessful outcome. The COMP levels from patients were significantly higher than those from normal dogs. MMP-9 activity and neurological severity were not related to the COMP levels. However, the COMP levels from 3 unsuccessful cases that had MMP-9 activity were significantly lower than those from all recovered cases and/or successful cases without deep nociception. Concerning severe cases, increased proteolytic activity might affect the COMP concentration and prognosis due to MMP-9 associated deleterious effects.