Exploring the Role of MMPs, IL-1, and TNF-α in MRI Parameters of Lateral Discoid Meniscus Injury: A Quantitative Correlation Study

Abstract

Objective: The study's purpose was to evaluate the efficacy of MRI in the diagnosis of adult lateral discoid meniscus injury and quantify changes in associated parameters. Methods: 80 adults, irrespective of gender, presenting to the radiology department for an already suggested MRI, with and without lateral discoid meniscus injury of the knee joint, were selected. After written informed consent, demographic data were noted, and an MRI was performed. Results: The mean age of Group A was 39±7 years and Group B was 37±9 years, with equal gender distribution. Group A had significantly higher free edge height (5.39±0.71 vs 1.69±0.30, p < 0.001) and body width (31.1±3.16 vs 2.39±0.31, p < 0.001), while capsular edge height was lower (4.09±0.33 vs 5.11±0.59, p < 0.001). Group A also showed a significantly lower wedge sign (10% vs 72.5%, p < 0.001) and a higher fat angle sign (65% vs 0%, p < 0.001). Biomarker levels for MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, IL-1, and TNF-α were higher in Group A, with MMP-13 showing strong correlations with free edge height (r = 0.45, p < 0.01) and body width (r = 0.42, p < 0.01), MMP-3 with free edge height (r = 0.41, p < 0.01), and IL-1 with fat angle sign (r = 0.50, p < 0.001). Conclusion: MRI imaging proves to be efficacious in diagnosing lateral discoid meniscus injuries in adults, exhibiting notable differences in related parameters compared to individuals without injury. This underscores its value in injury diagnosis and highlights its potential clinical application.