Proliferation in squamous cell carcinoma of cervix: a comparative assessment by two markers

The study was aimed at assessing the cell proliferation in various grades of squamous cell carcinoma of cervix using two proliferation markers: AgNORs and Ki-67. 18 biopsy sections of various grades of SCC of cervix were chosen. AgNORs staining was done by single step staining technique using gelatin. Ki-67 immunostaining was done by Avidin--Biotin technique using DAB as a chromogen. Highest mean number of AgNORs was found in poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma and statistically significant difference was observed between well and poorly differentiated SCC and between moderately and poorly differentiated SCC. Highest mean Ki-67 LI was seen in poorly differentiated SCC. We observed correlation between histological grade and Ki-67 and AgNORs separately but no statistically significant correlation was found between Ki-67 and AgNOR counts. AgNORs and Ki-67 are both simple and easily performed techniques. They may prove to be a useful adjunct in estimating tumor proliferation and hence in determining the management strategy of the patients.