Expression of epidermal growth factor receptor, transforming growth factor-α and Ki-67 in relationship to malignant transformation of pleomorphic adenoma

Abstract

Conclusion. Quantitative assessment is more sensitive as a measure of cellular protein content as compared with standard optical density measurements. The data support the hypothesis that increased epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-α expression is associated with early events in malignant transformation of pleomorphic adenoma (PA). Objective. In the present study, we attempted to identify EGFR and TGF-α expression and Ki-67 index in carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma (Ca ex-PA) and PA. We also compared the presence of EGFR and TGF-α and Ki-67 index with clinical data. Materials and methods. The tissues were stained with monoclonal antibodies to EGFR, TGF-α and Ki-67. The results were analysed using quantitative immunohistochemical analysis. We also analysed the association of patients’ prognosis with clinical parameters and the histological classification of the carcinomatous component. Results. As regards the association of patients’ prognosis with EGFR staining and Ki-67 index, a significant increase was observed in patients who died or had residual disease compared with patients who were alive without disease. In the immunohistochemical analysis of EGFR and TGF-α and Ki67 index, a significant increase was observed in Ca ex-PA, especially with adenocarcinoma, compared with PA and sialadenitis.