Neuroendocrine and epithelial markers in diagnostic bronchial lung cancer biopsy specimens

The incidence of neuroendocrine and epithelial markers was investigated by immunocytochemistry in archival, lung cancer, bronchial biopsy specimens (n = 48). No correlation of antigenicity with histological type was observed. 79% non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) and 61% small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) were positive for epithelial markers. HuTu-m3 did not discriminate adenocarcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas from SCLC. 83% SCLC and 93% NSCLC were positive for one or more neuroendocrine marker. Multiple neuroendocrine markers were found in 61% SCLC, 83% NSCLC and 83% squamous cell carcinomas, this incidence being greater in the NSCLC group, and in the squamous carcinomas in particular, than previously reported.