Histological Grade and Oestrogen Receptor Status in Breast Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): L. Singh, A.J. Wilson, M. Baum, W.F. Whimster, I.H. Birch, I.M. Jackson, C. Lowrey, M.K. Palmer
Primary Institution: Kings College Hospital School of Medicine and Dentistry; Medical Research Dept., ICI Pharmaceutical Division
Hypothesis
Does histological grading correlate with oestrogen receptor status and predict survival in breast cancer patients?
Conclusion
Histological grading is predictive of events and survival in breast cancer, with better outcomes for patients receiving tamoxifen.
Supporting Evidence
- Histological grading was predictive for both events and deaths.
- Patients receiving 'Nolvadex' had fewer events and deaths compared to the control group.
- ER status was correlated with histological grade.
Takeaway
Doctors looked at tissue samples from breast cancer patients to see if the type of cancer could help predict how well treatment would work.
Methodology
Patients were graded histopathologically based on the Bloom & Richardson criteria, and statistical analysis was performed using an intention to treat policy.
Potential Biases
Observer variation in histological grading could affect results.
Limitations
The study may have a bias due to the high number of grade I tumours and the subjective nature of histological grading.
Participant Demographics
Included premenopausal women with positive axillary nodes and postmenopausal women aged 75 or less.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.03
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
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