Immunohistochemical evaluation of p53 and Ki67 expression in skin epithelial tumors

Effat Khodaeiani1, Ashraf Fakhrjou, Mehdi Amirnia

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Sina Hospital, Tabriz, Iran.

Abstract

Insights

This study found high expression of tumor suppressor p53 and proliferation marker Ki67 in skin epithelial tumors like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. These findings highlight their role in skin cancer development.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Dermatopathology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • The p53 tumor suppressor gene and Ki67 proliferation marker are crucial in understanding skin tumor development.
  • Defects in p53 are common in malignancies, while Ki67 influences cell cycle progression.
  • Evaluating their expression is vital for understanding skin tumor biology.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the expression of p53 and Ki67 in various skin epithelial tumors.
  • To utilize immunohistochemistry for assessing these biomarkers in different skin cancer types.

Main Methods:

  • A descriptive study analyzed 50 biopsy samples including basal cell carcinomas (BCCs), squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), keratoacanthomas (KAs), and trichoepitheliomas (TEs).
  • Immunohistochemical staining was performed to evaluate the expression rates of p53 and Ki67.
  • Data was collected over a 14-month period.

Main Results:

  • High expression rates of p53 were observed in BCCs (67.77%) and SCCs (50.20%), with 50% in TEs.
  • Ki67 expression was notable in BCCs (57.33%) and SCCs (47.70%), and 37.5% in KAs.
  • Incidence of p53+ cells was 100% in BCCs and 90% in SCCs; Ki67+ cells were 100% in BCCs, SCCs, and KAs.

Conclusions:

  • Skin malignant epithelial tumors exhibit a high incidence of p53 and Ki67 positive cells.
  • The observed expression rates align with existing literature.
  • Further research with larger cohorts is recommended for keratoacanthomas and trichoepitheliomas.