Significance of erb-B2 immunoreactivity in cervical cancer

C-erbB2 is over-expressed or amplified in many carcinomas. We assessed the relationship between erb-B2 immunoreactivity, and its predictive role in progression-free survival and treatment outcome in patients with cervical carcinoma. Sections from 65 cervical carcinoma were immunostained with antibody to p185 erbB2. Immunoreactive ErbB2 was found in 25 patients (38%) [+ 15 pts. (23%); ++ 10 pts. (15%)]. There were no correlation with age, performance status, grading and histology. Erb-B2 immunoreactivity significantly correlated with stage of the disease. Positive immunoreactivity was found in 63%, 44%, 14% and 0% of stage I, II, III and IV carcinomas, (p = 0.0045). Progression-free survival was longer in erb-B2 positive patients without reaching significance. No correlation was found between erbB2 and response to radiotherapy or chemotherapy. In conclusion, a significant proportion of stage I and II cervical cancer express erb-B2 compared to more advanced stages. Expression of the oncogene does not appear to be related to prognosis or treatment outcome.