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Multiplexed Immunofluorescence Analysis and Quantification of Intratumoral PD-1+ Tim-3+ CD8+ T Cells
Published on: February 8, 2018
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The relationships between PD-L1 expression, CD8+ TILs and clinico-histomorphological parameters in malignant
V Škuciová1, S Drahošová2, D Výbohová3
1Alphamedical s.r.o., Záborského 2, 038 61, Martin, Slovakia; Comenius University in Bratislava, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Department of Histology and Embryology, Malá Hora 4, 036 01, Martin, Slovakia.
Pathology, Research and Practice
|August 23, 2020
Summary
Higher CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) counts in malignant melanoma (MM) correlate with favorable prognosis. TIL density is also geographically associated with PD-L1 expression, offering insights into MM progression.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Malignant melanomas (MM) often exhibit PD-L1 expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), but their prognostic impact is debated.
- Understanding the interplay between CD8+ TILs, PD-L1, and clinical factors is crucial for predicting MM outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between CD8+ TIL count, PD-L1 expression, and clinical-histopathological parameters in malignant melanoma.
- To clarify the prognostic significance of TILs and PD-L1 in MM, particularly in cases with unfavorable prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry for PD-L1 (clone 28-8) and CD8 was performed on 56 MM specimens.
- PD-L1 expression was quantified using tumor proportion scores (TPS).
- CD8+ TIL infiltration was graded (0, 1+, 2+, 3+) based on density and distribution.
Main Results:
- PD-L1 expression was observed in 35.71% of cases (20/56).
- Increased PD-L1 expression on tumor cells was significantly associated with higher TIL infiltration (p=0.038).
- Lower TIL scores correlated with adverse prognostic factors: increased mitotic figures (p=0.005), higher Clark's level (p=0.007), and greater Breslow's depth (p=0.010).
Conclusions:
- CD8+ TIL infiltration demonstrates a favorable prognostic value in malignant melanoma.
- TIL density is strongly and geographically correlated with PD-L1 expression.
- This study enhances understanding of TIL count and PD-L1 levels in MM, their interrelationship, and association with prognostic indicators.

