Relationship among Genetic Alterations, DNA Content, and Clinicopathological Features in Primary Lung Adenocarcinomas

Only fragmentary information is available about the genomic imbalances affecting the malignant potential of lung cancers.

Chromosomal DNA sequence copy number aberrations (DSCNAs) and DNA content (ploidy status) were examined in 34 resected tumor specimens, using comparative genomic hybridization and laser scanning cytometry, respectively.

Twenty-seven tumors showed DNA aneuploidy. Gains of 9q22-33 and 10q26-qter and loss of 15q14-qter were the significant indicators of lymph node metastasis. These DSCNAs were identified only in aneuploid tumors. Aneuploid tumors with any of these DSCNAs were associated with a worse prognosis than those not associated with any of these DSCNAs. The DNA index was a significant prognosticator in aneuploid tumors, although it was not dependent on the level of genetic alterations.

Clinically-relevant genetic alterations were identified predominantly in aneuploid tumors. The DNA content also affected the prognosis of patients with aneuploid tumors. Thus, a comprehensive genomic study of aneuploid lung adenocarcinomas should be of great clinical value.