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Cellular DNA content parameters as prognostic indicators in human astrocytomas.
Basil F El-Rayes1, Camille S Norton, Wael Sakr
1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Wayne State University, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
Journal of Neuro-Oncology
|February 4, 2005
Summary
DNA content parameters may predict astrocytoma outcomes. Untreated patients showed prolonged survival trends based on DNA ploidy, suggesting prognostic value for these tumors.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Pathology
Background:
- Astrocytoma patient outcomes are typically predicted by clinical factors like tumor grade, size, and location.
- The prognostic significance of DNA content parameters in astrocytomas remains to be fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prognostic value of cellular DNA content parameters (CDCP) in astrocytoma patients.
- To determine if DNA ploidy and S phase fraction (SPF) correlate with patient survival.
Main Methods:
- DNA ploidy and SPF were analyzed in 64 astrocytoma specimens using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues.
- Cellular DNA content parameters (CDCP) methodology was optimized and validated.
- Survival data was correlated with tumor grade, DNA ploidy status, and SPF.
Main Results:
- Median survival correlated with tumor grade (Grade I/II: 1154 days vs. Grade III/IV: 483 days).
- Fifty-five percent of tumors were DNA aneuploid (average SPF 18.3%), and 45% were DNA diploid (average SPF 9.6%).
- A trend for prolonged median survival was observed in untreated patients with DNA diploid tumors compared to DNA aneuploid tumors.
Conclusions:
- DNA content parameters show potential prognostic significance in astrocytomas.
- These parameters may correlate with the natural history and treatment outcomes, particularly in newly diagnosed, untreated patients.