Prognostic criteria for squamous cell cancer of the skin

J Surg Res. 2010 Mar;159(1):509-16. doi: 10.1016/j.jss.2008.12.008. Epub 2009 Jan 1.

Abstract

Background: Non-well-differentiated cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas may display a more aggressive behavior. It is important to better define prognostic criteria for these tumors.

Methods: This was a retrospective case-control analysis of a squamous cell carcinoma database. Patients with non-well-differentiated and well-differentiated tumors were matched based on site of tumor, age, and immunocompromised status. Comparisons included demographics, histology, immunohistochemical protein expressions (Ki-67, p53, E-cadherin, cyclin D1), and clinical outcomes.

Results: Demographic features were similar between cases (n=30) and controls (n=30). Non-well-differentiated tumors were larger (1.8 cm versus 1.3 cm, P=0.08), deeper (0.81 cm versus 0.32 cm, P<0.0001), and had greater recurrence (P=0.003). Non-well-differentiated tumors showed increased proliferation rate, Ki-67 index (77% versus 61%, P=0.001); no significant difference in activity of p53, E-cadherin, and cyclin D1 between the two groups.

Conclusions: Tumor differentiation and depth are important pathologic and prognostic criteria for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Immunohistochemistry helps describe patterns of biomarker protein expression and may exemplify aggressive subtypes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Biomarkers / metabolism
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / metabolism
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prognosis
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Skin / metabolism
  • Skin / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Skin Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*

Substances

  • Biomarkers