Number of apoptotic cells as a prognostic marker in invasive breast cancer
2000
Apoptotic Cells as a Prognostic Marker in Breast Cancer
Sample size: 172
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Jong J S de, Diest P J van, Baak J P A
Primary Institution: Free University Hospital Amsterdam
Hypothesis
The number of apoptotic cells can serve as a prognostic marker in invasive breast cancer.
Conclusion
Higher numbers of apoptotic cells are associated with shorter overall survival in breast cancer patients.
Supporting Evidence
- The apoptotic index (AI) showed a positive correlation to the mitotic activity index (MAI).
- Patients with high AI showed shorter overall survival than those with low AI.
- Tumor size, MAI, lymph node status, and AI were independent prognostic indicators.
Takeaway
This study found that counting dying cells in breast cancer tumors can help predict how long patients might live.
Methodology
The study counted apoptotic cells in tumor sections from breast cancer patients and analyzed their correlation with survival and other indicators.
Participant Demographics
Patients with grade I and II invasive breast cancers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P = 0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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