Detecting Oestrogen Receptors in Breast Cancer Aspirates
Author Information
Author(s): R.A. Hawkins, K. Sangster, A. Tesdale, P.A. Levack, E.D.C. Anderson, U. Chetty, A.P.M. Forrest
Primary Institution: University Department of Surgery, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh
Hypothesis
Can cytochemical staining of breast cancer aspirates accurately predict response to endocrine therapy?
Conclusion
Cytochemical staining of breast cancer aspirates correlates well with oestrogen receptor content and clinical response to therapy.
Supporting Evidence
- The cytochemical staining index correlated with receptor concentration with coefficients of +0.65 and +0.73 in two series of patients.
- Response to endocrine therapy was assessed in 14 patients, showing a strong correlation with cytochemical staining.
- Six out of 14 patients showed regression of the tumor, all with a staining index greater than 1.40.
Takeaway
Doctors can use a special test to see if breast cancer cells have a certain marker that helps predict how well treatment will work.
Methodology
Breast aspirates were taken from patients and stained for oestrogen receptors, with results compared to biochemical assays.
Potential Biases
Assessments were made by non-pathologists, which could affect accuracy.
Limitations
The method may cause some cell damage and may not detect low receptor levels in some premenopausal women.
Participant Demographics
Patients aged 33 to 76 years, including one male and a mix of premenopausal and postmenopausal women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0005
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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