CARBOHYDRATE ANTIGENS AS ONCOFETAL ANTIGENS IN PAPILLARY CARCINOMA OFTHE THYROID-GLAND

The expression of simple mucin-type antigens, Lewis type-1 antigens, a nd Lewis type-2-related antigens was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in a series of nine fetal thyroid glands. The aim of the study was to establish whether the previously reported expression of carbohydrate antigens in thyroid carcinomas represents a ''de novo'' expression or a form of the so-called oncofetal expression. We have detected simple mucin-type antigens and Lewis type-2-related antigens in fetal thyroid tissue. Lewis type-1 antigens were not found. Taking the results of t his study together with those previously reported, we conclude that th e presence of Lewis type 1 antigens in thyroid carcinomas appears to b e a ''de novo'' expression, whereas the constant and strong expression of simple mucin-type antigens and Lewis type-2-related antigens repre sents a reexpression (oncofetal expression) of antigens already presen t during fetal life.