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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
Microsatellite DNA Genotyping and Flow Cytometry Ploidy Analyses of Formalin-fixed Paraffin-embedded Hydatidiform Molar Tissues
Published on: October 20, 2019
Expression of CD44, E-cadherin, and antimetastatic protein nm23-H1 in complete hydatidiform moles
E A Reynolds1, B DuBeshter, P Katzman
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
Introduction:
There is scant information about the expression of CD44 and E-cadherin, two cell adhesion molecules, and the antimetastatic protein nm23-H1, in complete hydatidiform moles. We measured the expression of these markers to determine their usefulness in predicting the development of invasive disease.
Materials And Methods:
We performed a retrospective study of 27 patients with complete hydatidiform moles, collecting clinical information including the patient's age, pre-evacuation hCG level, pathology, hCG monitoring, and the development of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. Immunohistochemical staining for CD44, E-cadherin, and nm23-H1 was performed. CD44 expression was classified as positive or negative. For E-cadherin and nm23-H1, the intensity of expression was graded on a 0 to 3 scale. Chi-square or Fisher's exact testing was used to evaluate the relationship between these markers and the development of invasive disease.
Results:
CD44 was expressed in 26% of cases. E-cadherin expression was 1+, 2+, and 3+in 8%, 33%, and 59% of cases, respectively. Nm23-H1 expression was 1+, 2+, and 3+in 4%, 11%, and 85% of cases. The risk of developing invasive disease did not correlate with the expression of CD44, E-cadherin, or nm23-H1.
Conclusion:
In this preliminary study, there is no relationship between CD44, E-cadherin, and nm23-H1 expression in complete hydatidiform moles and the risk of invasive disease. Other molecular markers predictive of invasive disease should be sought to limit hCG surveillance to those at risk.
