OP200: MMP-7 expression predicts neck metastasis in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Purpose Predicting clinical outcome in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) with the TNM classification is challenging as even small tumors may behave aggressively. The presence of cervical lymph node metastases is considered to be the most important tumor related adverse prognostic factor in these tumors and in general in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes that are able to degrade almost all extracellular matrix proteins. They are considered to be critical enzymes during invasion, metastasis and tumor angiogenesis and therefore, for tumor progression. MMP-7, also called matrilysin-1, has a wide proteolytic activity and capability to activate other MMPs, and thus exerts various roles in tissue remodeling. In physiological condition, MMP-7 is expressed by normal ductal and glandular epithelium, but it is also linked to many types of malignant tumors. We investigated the clinical significance of MMP-7 protein expression in OTSCC. Material and methods We used tissue microarray (TMA) technique and immunohistochemistry to study the expression of MMP-7 in 73 Stage I–II OTSCC patients, and compared the immunoexpression with patient and tumor related characteristics and treatment outcome. Results Immunohistochemistry showed MMP-7 expression in 90% (n = 63/70) of the tumor samples. Expression was low in 35 (50%), moderate in 21 (30%), and high in seven (10%) cases. MMP-7 protein expression was associated with presence of occult cervical metastases (p = 0.004). Conclusions We conclude that elevated MMP-7 expression may predict neck metastasis in early-stage OTSCC.