[Distribution of epidermal growth factor receptor in glioma]

A monoclonal antibody (Amersham) to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was used for immunohistochemical study to confirm the presence of EGFR in the glioma tissue. Fresh surgical material was stored at -80 degrees C, and frozen sections were stained. Positive staining was demonstrated in 8 of 9 gliomas. In 2 of 8, more than 50% of tumor cells were positively stained. In 4 of 8, positive cells were seen scattered in the tissue. In the remaining 2 gliomas, few tumor cells were positively stained. The most representative staining was seen on the cytoplasmic membrane. But there were also nuclear and cytoplasmic stainings. The distribution of EGFR in the glioma cells suggests possible role of the epidermal growth factor in the proliferation of gliomas.