E-Cadherin as a Predictor for Metastasis in Oral Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Huber Gerhard F, Züllig Lena, Soltermann Alex, Roessle Matthias, Graf Nicole, Haerle Stephan K, Studer Gabriela, Jochum Wolfram, Moch Holger, Stoeckli Sandro J
Primary Institution: University Hospital Zurich
Hypothesis
Low expression of ECAD leads to reduced tumour cell to tumour cell adhesion and therefore easier disintegration of single tumour cells with increased risk of occult metastatic disease.
Conclusion
Loss of E-cadherin expression is associated with increased lymph node metastasis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Supporting Evidence
- E-Cadherin expression was significantly correlated with lymph node status.
- High E-Cadherin expression was associated with negative lymph node status.
- The study included a well-defined cohort of patients with early-stage cancers.
Takeaway
This study found that when cancer cells have less E-Cadherin, they are more likely to spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Methodology
E-Cadherin expression was evaluated in tumor tissue of 120 patients using tissue microarray technique and correlated with lymph node status.
Limitations
The study was retrospective and had a limited number of patients with sufficient material for analysis.
Participant Demographics
Mean age was 59 years, with a male to female ratio of 82:38.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.005
Confidence Interval
1.450-8.694
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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