c-erbB-2 Protein as a Prognostic Marker in Breast Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): R.A. Walker, W.J. Gullick, J.M. Varley
Primary Institution: Leicester Royal Infirmary
Hypothesis
Is c-erbB-2 protein expression an independent indicator of poor short-term prognosis in breast cancer?
Conclusion
Immunoreactivity for c-erbB-2 protein is a significant independent indicator of poor short-term prognosis in breast cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- c-erbB-2 protein was detected in 16.5% of carcinomas.
- More poorly differentiated carcinomas showed staining (36%) compared to well (17%) or moderately (14%) differentiated carcinomas.
- There was a significant association between c-erbB-2 staining and mortality (P=0.009).
- The relative risk of death for staining compared to no staining was 2.97.
- The relative risk of recurrence for staining compared to no staining was 3.85.
Takeaway
This study found that a protein called c-erbB-2 can help doctors predict if breast cancer will get worse quickly.
Methodology
Eighty-five breast carcinomas were assessed immunohistochemically for c-erbB-2 protein expression, with follow-up for a median of 24 months.
Limitations
The study had a relatively small sample size and a short follow-up period.
Participant Demographics
Patients with breast carcinoma, including 22 with advanced disease.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P=0.009 for mortality; P=0.0002 for recurrence
Confidence Interval
1.29, 6.84 for mortality; 1.86-7.97 for recurrence
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website