Predictive value of malignancy grading systems, DNA content, p53, and angiogenesis for stage I tongue carcinomas

Aim-To assess the clinical value of malignancy grading systems compared wit h nuclear DNA content, protein p53, and angiogenesis for predicting recurre nce of stage I (UICC, 1987) tongue carcinomas. Methods-Histopathogical malignancy grading according to Jakobsson and tumou r front grading according to Bryne et al were performed on haematoxylin and eosin slides. DNA analysis was performed by image cytometry. Protein p53 a nd angiogenesis were evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis using antibo dy CM1 and antibody against factor VIII related antigen, respectively. Results-49 patients with stage I carcinomas of the mobile tongue were inclu ded, all treated by local surgical excision alone. Eight patients (16%) suf fered from local recurrence during follow up, and 13 (27%) had regional rec urrence. Both Jakobsson's malignancy grading system and p53 immunoreactivit y proved to be useful predictors of regional recurrence in a Cox multivaria te regression analysis. Conclusions-Histopathological malignancy grading systems provide valuable p rognostic information and can still compete with current biological markers in this respect.