Understanding Pituitary Tumour Behavior
Author Information
Author(s): Turner H E, Nagy Zs, Gatter K C, Esiri M M, Wass J A H, Harris A L
Primary Institution: Departments of Endocrinology and Neuropathology, Radcliffe Infirmary, Oxford, UK
Hypothesis
Can measurements of cell proliferation and angiogenesis predict the behavior of pituitary tumors?
Conclusion
The study found that while cell proliferation and angiogenesis are not related, bcl-2 expression may indicate the ability of tumor cells to survive.
Supporting Evidence
- There was no difference in Ki-67 LI and MVD of functionless tumors that recurred and those that did not.
- Bcl-2 expression was significantly lower in tumors that subsequently regrew.
- Macroprolactinomas had significantly higher LI than microprolactinomas and all other tumors.
- Cell proliferation and angiogenesis were not related, indicating different control mechanisms.
- A positive relationship was found between markers of angiogenesis and bcl-2 expression in certain tumor types.
Takeaway
This study looks at how certain factors in pituitary tumors can help doctors understand how the tumors will behave and respond to treatment.
Methodology
The study assessed tumor proliferation using the Ki-67 labelling index and angiogenesis through microvessel density measurements.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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