Prognostic value of DNA image cytometry in resected colorectal hepatic metastases

OBJECTIVE: To determine the role of DNA image cytometry (DNA ICM) as a usef ul predictor of outcome following the resection of colorectal hepatic metas tases. STUDY DESIGN: In 75 patients (56 XO resections) with resected colorectal he patic metastases, DNA ICM was performed on paraffin-embedded specimens. The DNA content of 250 tumor cells pins determined in each specimen, and the 2 c level was evaluated using 30 granulocytes from the same sample. RESULTS: Common algorithms of DNA ICM, such as maximum DNA content, 5c exce eding rate, 9c exceeding rate, 2c deviation index and the DNA grade of mali gnancy, identified a group of patients with favorable survival following XO resection. Clinical findings failed to serve as a prognostic factor. A mul tivariate analysis revealed the maximum DNA content to be an independent fa ctor influencing postoperative survival. CONCLUSION: DNA ICM is associated with the biologic aggressiveness of color ectal hepatic metastases and is useful as a prognostic marker in patients a fter resection.