A study of Ki-67, c-erbB2 and cyclin D-1 expression in CIN-I, CIN-III and squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix

The histological criteria for cervical intraepithelial neoplastic lesions and their follow-ups have been established, but their reproducibility, specificity and sensibility are not certain. Immunohistochemical markers provide more information on each specific case, in order to facilitate its classification and, eventually, its prognosis. Using immunohistochemical techniques, this study analyzes the prognostic value of three markers (Ki-67, c-erbB2 and Cyclin D1) in cases of low grade squamous intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN-I), high grade squamous intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN-III), and infiltrating squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) taken from a group of cervical samples. In situ hybridization was performed in order to detect high-risk HPV. High risk HPV was demonstrated in 82%, 89% and 100% of the LGSIL, HGSIL and SCC cases, respectively. C-erbB2 expression was detected in 9%, 33% and 50% of the LSIL, HGSIL and SCC cases, respectively. The Ki-67 LI was 25%, 68% and 65.5% in the LGSIL, HGSIL and SCC cases, respectively. Nuclear Cyclin D1 expression was seen in 82%, 11% and 30% of the CINI, CIN-III and SCC cases, respectively. We observed that the cytoplasmic cyclin D1 expression increased with the severity of the lesion instead of the nuclear expression decreasing with the progression of the pathology. Nuclear and cytoplasmic Cyclin D1 expression seemed to be related to HPV high risk infection. We concluded that Cyclin D1, cerbB2 and The Ki- 67 LI expression changed in relation to the severity of the lesion and that they could be helpful in making a differential diagnosis.