Angiogenic switch occurs late in squamous cell carcinomas of human skin
2000
Angiogenic Switch in Skin Cancer
Sample size: 61
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Strieth S, Hartschuh W, Pilz L, Fusenig N E
Primary Institution: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)
Hypothesis
The study investigates the role of angiogenesis in different stages of squamous cell carcinomas of the skin.
Conclusion
Only late-stage squamous cell carcinomas showed a significant increase in vascularization.
Supporting Evidence
- Mean vascular density was similar in normal dermis and actinic keratosis.
- Late-stage squamous cell carcinomas showed a significant increase in vascularization.
- Vessel density was independent of tumor localization and degree of proliferation.
Takeaway
The study found that only advanced skin cancers have more blood vessels, which might explain why they spread less than expected.
Methodology
Vessel density was analyzed in various skin samples using CD 31-immunostaining and computer-assisted image analysis.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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