Increased p16 and p53 protein expression predicts poor prognosis in mucosal melanoma

Primary mucosal melanoma (MM) is a rare, and aggressive, neoplasm with a poor prognosis. To date, few prognostic markers of MM have been well-defined. The aim of this study is to clarify the prognostic value of p53 and p16 proteins in predicting the clinical outcome of Chinese patients with MM. A total of 59 MM samples were contained from biopsy specimens, and, expressions of p53 and p16 proteins were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Cox regression analysis was performed to investigate the association of these proteins with the overall survival of MM patients. Increased p16 expression was significantly associated with reduced survival at three years (P=0.039). Increased p53 expression correlates with reduced one-year (P=0.025), and, two-year survival (P=0.037). Increased p53 and p16 protein expression may be helpful prognostic indicators for the management of these patients.