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HLA class II sublocus expression in benign and malignant breast epithelium
1Department of Pathology, Leicester Royal Infirmary, U.K.
The Journal of Pathology
|August 1, 1988
Summary
This study investigated human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II expression in breast tissues. Most breast carcinomas showed altered HLA class II expression, suggesting a role in tumor behavior.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Histopathology
Background:
- Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II molecules are crucial for immune responses.
- Their expression in breast tissue, particularly in relation to malignancy, requires detailed investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze epithelial expression of HLA class II products in benign and malignant breast tissues.
- To correlate HLA class II expression patterns with tumor characteristics and inflammatory infiltrate.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry using a panel of five monoclonal antibodies.
- Assessment of epithelial HLA class II expression (DR, DQ, DP).
- Quantification of stromal mononuclear inflammatory cell infiltrate.
Main Results:
- Benign breast tissues showed consistent HLA class II expression (75%) with coordinate DR and DQW1 expression.
- 61% of carcinomas exhibited variable loss of epithelial HLA class II expression; 28% were negative.
- Loss of expression was unrelated to inflammatory infiltrate or lymph node status. Non-coordinate DR/DQW1 expression occurred in 8/40 carcinomas, associated with poor differentiation.
Conclusions:
- Alterations in epithelial HLA class II expression are common in breast carcinomas.
- These alterations may be indicative of or influence tumor behavior.
- This is the first study to comprehensively detail HLA class II expression in breast tissue.