Cell Kinetics as a Prognostic Factor in Stage II Melanoma
Author Information
Author(s): A. Costa, R. Silvestrini, G. Mezzanotte, M. Vaglini, E. Grignolio, C. Clemente, N. Cascinelli
Primary Institution: Istituto Nazionale Tumori
Hypothesis
The study investigates the prognostic role of cell kinetics in patients with stage II melanoma.
Conclusion
The 3H-thymidine labelling index is a significant prognostic factor for relapse-free and overall survival in stage II melanoma patients.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients with high 3H-TdR LI tumours had a two-fold risk of relapse and death within the first year compared to those with low 3H-TdR LI tumours.
- 3-year relapse-free survival was 40% for slowly proliferating melanomas and 22% for rapidly proliferating melanomas.
- 3-year overall survival was 68% for slowly proliferating melanomas and 46% for rapidly proliferating melanomas.
Takeaway
Doctors can use a special test to see how fast melanoma cells are growing, which helps them understand how likely a patient is to get better.
Methodology
The study analyzed 166 patients with stage II melanoma, assessing cell kinetics through 3H-thymidine labelling index on metastatic nodes.
Limitations
The study could not perform cell kinetics determination on the primary tumor due to histologic microstaging constraints.
Participant Demographics
The cohort included 66 females and 100 males, with a median age of 47 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.007
Statistical Significance
p=0.007
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website