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Nerve cell adhesion molecule expression in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: a predictor of propensity toward perineural spread.
- Source :
- Laryngoscope; 1999, Vol. 109 Issue 5, p821-826, 6p
- Publication Year :
- 1999
-
Abstract
- <bold>Objective: </bold>To evaluate head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (SCCAs) for the expression of nerve cell adhesion molecule (N-CAM). We propose that expression of N-CAM by tumor cells may be associated with perineural invasion in SCCA of the head and neck.<bold>Methods: </bold>Seventy-six archived specimens of histologically proven SCCA were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for the expression of N-CAM. Positive and negative controls were used to assess staining. Two sections of each specimen were reviewed for the presence of perineural invasion. A retrospective chart review was performed for each patient that corresponded to the above specimens.<bold>Results: </bold>Perineural invasion was present in 28 (37%) of the 76 patients evaluated for the expression of N-CAM. N-CAM expression was demonstrated in 38 (50%) of the 76 specimens. The incidence of N-CAM expression was significantly associated with perineural invasion (P = .002). There was no significant association between the presence of staining or the presence of perineural invasion and the incidence of locoregional recurrence, distant metastasis, or survival status; however, the mean follow-up was only 13.6 months (range, 1-49 mo).<bold>Conclusion: </bold>There is a positive correlation between the presence of N-CAM expression and perineural invasion in SCCA of the head and neck. The expression of this adhesion molecule by tumor cells may facilitate both homophilic cell-to-cell and heterophilic cell-to-substrate adhesion, thereby enabling the tumor cells to use the perineural tissues or neural cells, or both as a conduit for perineural spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 0023852X
- Volume :
- 109
- Issue :
- 5
- Database :
- Complementary Index
- Journal :
- Laryngoscope
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 107201357