Transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α) expression in biopsies of colorectal carcinoma is a significant prognostic indicator
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
7-1-1996
Journal
Anticancer Research
Volume
16
Issue
4 A
Keywords
Colon cancer; Immunohistochemistry; Preoperative biopsy; Survival; TGF-α
Abstract
Background: Predicting the outcome of patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma (CRCA) prior to surgery would be valuable in selecting high-risk individuals who may benefit from pre-operative adjuvant therapy. The aim of this study is to determine whether the expression of TGF-α in preoperative biopsies of patients with CRCA constitutes a significant prognostic indicator. Methods: We studied the expression of TGF-α in preoperative biopsies of 106 patients with CRCA, who had at least 5 years follow-up, using an anti-TGF-α monoclonal antibody and utilizing the ABC immunoperoxidase technique. For survival analysis, we used the actuarial survival method, and the Log Rank test for statistical significance. Results: CRCAs with low TGF-α expression (less than 25% of the tumor cells immunoreactive for TGF-α) had a significantly poorer survival than those with high TGF-α expression (more than 25%). After excluding from analysis biopsies showing mucinous or poorly differentiated CRCA, known predictors of poor prognosis, the results remained significant (p = 0.0289). Conclusion: It is concluded, therefore, that low or absent expression of TGF-α in pre-operative biopsies of patients with CRCA, as detected by immunohistochemistry, is a significant predictor of an unfavorable outcome.
APA Citation
Younes, M., Fernandez, L., & Lechago, J. (1996). Transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α) expression in biopsies of colorectal carcinoma is a significant prognostic indicator. Anticancer Research, 16 (4 A). Retrieved from https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/smhs_path_facpubs/1078