Use of immunohistochemical versus microsatellite analyses as markers for colorectal cancer

Objectives: Our aim was to determine how well immunohistochemical analysis identified colon cancer patients with microsatellite instability in Turkish patients. Material and methods: Subjects were patients that underwent surgery for colorectal cancer in our institution between 2006 and 2011. Patients were grouped as: (1) suspected Lynch syndrome (n=14), (2) familial colorectal cancer (n=14), and (3) sporadic colorectal cancer groups (n=14). Mismatch repair proteins were analyzed by a four antibody-panel immunohistochemistry. Microsatellite instability analysis was conducted on DNA samples using MSI-PCR followed by fragment analysis. Results: The immunohistochemistry and PCR results had good concordance in 35/42 patients. Both microsatellite instability and at least one mismatch repair protein deficiency were detected in 11 patients, and both microsatellite stability and normal expression of mismatch repair proteins were detected in 24 patients. Test results were discordant in seven of the patients. Conclusion: As it is not feasible to perform expensive molecular tests in healthcare units in many developing countries, the four antibody-panel immunohistochemistry is a reliable and affordable method for screening for colorectal cancer, including Lynch syndrome and sporadic cases when suspected.