EGFR Positivity in Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors
Author Information
Author(s): Séverine Tabone-Eglinger, Radislav Bahleda, Jean-François Côté, Philippe Terrier, Dominique Vidaud, Anne Cayre, Alain Beauchet, Nathalie Théou-Anton, Marie-José Terrier-Lacombe, Antoinette Lemoine, Frédérique Penault-Llorca, Axel Le Cesne, Jean-François Emile
Primary Institution: Institut Gustave-Roussy
Hypothesis
Does the expression of EGFR correlate with the aggressiveness of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs)?
Conclusion
EGFR is frequently expressed in MPNSTs, especially in those associated with neurofibromatosis type 1, suggesting it could be a target for treatment.
Supporting Evidence
- EGFR expression was detected in 86% of MPNSTs.
- EGFR expression was more frequent in NF1 specimens.
- Median survivals were 18 months for NF1 patients and 43 months for non-NF1 patients.
- EGFR transcripts were more abundant in MPNSTs than in benign neurofibromas.
Takeaway
This study looked at tumors from 52 patients and found that a protein called EGFR is often present in these tumors, especially in patients with a genetic condition called NF1.
Methodology
The study analyzed EGFR expression in 52 MPNST samples using immunohistochemistry and compared results with clinical data.
Limitations
Grading of tumors was not performed due to limited sample amounts.
Participant Demographics
Mean age was 23 years, with a sex ratio of 30 males to 22 females; half had neurofibromatosis type 1.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.04
Confidence Interval
1.2–6.2
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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