Cell proliferative indices and DNA content as prognostic factors in primary breast cancer

Cumulative data from several studies suggest that indices of cell proliferation, including tritiated thymidine labelling index, S-phase fraction and DNA ploidy are among the most powerful prognostic factors in patients with breast cancer. If the prospective trials currently in progress confirm these findings, then DNA flow cytometry may become standard in the management of breast cancer patients, particularly in selecting those node-negative patients who have a relatively high risk of relapse and who may benefit from adjuvant systemic therapy.