Loss of Ep-CAM Expression Predicts Survival in Gastric Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Songun I, Litvinov S V, van de Velde C J H, Pals S T, Hermans J, van Krieken J H J M
Primary Institution: Leiden University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Does the expression of Ep-CAM predict survival in gastric cancer patients?
Conclusion
Loss of Ep-CAM expression is associated with poorer survival outcomes in gastric cancer patients.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients without loss of Ep-CAM expression had a significantly better 10-year survival rate of 42%.
- Patients with CD44v6 expression in more than 25% of tumor cells had a better survival rate of 29%.
- The prognostic value of both markers was stronger in stages I and II.
- Loss of Ep-CAM expression identifies aggressive tumors especially in patients with stage I and II disease.
Takeaway
If a patient with gastric cancer has low levels of a certain protein called Ep-CAM, they might not live as long as those who have high levels of it.
Methodology
The study analyzed tumor tissues from 300 patients to evaluate the expression of various markers and their association with survival.
Limitations
The study may not account for all variables affecting survival, and the results need further validation.
Participant Demographics
The study included 181 male and 119 female patients with a mean age of 64.7 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001 for Ep-CAM loss and survival
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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