Hormonal receptor status, Ki-67 and HER2 expression: Prognostic value in the recurrence of ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast?

Purpose: Local recurrence is considered a major concern in patients diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), as its invasive occurrence is associated with high rates of distant disease and mortality. This study aims to assess the possible correlation of hormonal receptor status, Ki-67 and HER2 expression with recurrence rates in women with DCIS, taking also into account the potential prognostic effects of grade and age at diagnosis.
Methods: 230 consecutive patients with DCIS were included in this study. Invasive and non-invasive recurrence events were recorded, as a total. Clinicopathological information, as well as PR positivity, ER positivity, HER2 positivity and ki-67 expression were analyzed. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was performed, examining the risk factors for recurrence.
Results: Recurrence was noted in 17.8% of cases; the median follow-up was 44 months. Higher grade (adjusted HR = 1.72, 95%CI: 1.06-2.78), age at diagnosis (adjusted HR = 0.60, 95%CI: 0.43-0.83), Ki-67 expression (adjusted HR = 1.78, 95%CI: 1.11-2.88), and type of administered treatment were independently associated with increased recurrence rates. Recurrence rates were not significantly associated with ER, PR status or HER2 expression.
Conclusion: In addition to high grade, administered treatment and younger age at diagnosis, high Ki-67 expression seems to be independently associated with increased likelihood of recurrence in patients with DCIS. Future studies with additional molecular markers seem necessary to further improve the identification of high-risk patients for DCIS recurrence.
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