Immunohistochemical investigation of p53 and EGFR expression of oligodendrogliomas

The biological behavior of oligodendrogliomas is somewhat unpredictable. A supplementing prognostic factor is, therefore, desirable. Thirty-two supratentorial pure oligodendrogliomas were studied immunohistochemically by exposing the tumors to a monoclonal antibody towards the p53 protein, and a polyclonal antibody against the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). A mean p53 labeling index (% of tumor cells stained) of 8.6% and a weak EGFR expression in 18 of the oligodendrogliomas were found. Univariate analysis showed no correlation between p53, EGFR expression and prognosis. Multivariate analysis showed that age was a prognostic factor for survival.