β-catenin expression as a strong predictor of recurrence in juvenile angiofibroma

Juvenile angiofibroma (JA) is a rare fibrovascular tumor affecting young males. Although histologically benign, JA is clinically aggressive, with high morbidity, mortality, and recurrence rates. While β-catenin expression is known to contribute to JA growth, its role in recurrence remains uncertain.

This study investigates the relationship between β-catenin expression and recurrence risk in JA patients.

An analytical observational case-control study was conducted at Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, analyzing 33 JA patients who underwent tumor excision (2013-2022). Patients without recurrence were controls, while those with recurrence were cases. Immunohistochemistry and H-scoring quantified β-catenin expression, and statistical analysis examined its association with recurrence. ROC curves determined cut-off values.

Among 33 patients (all male, aged 9-28 years; mean: 16.2 years), 15 had recurrences. High β-catenin expression was significantly associated with recurrence (p = 0.000), with an H-score cut-off of 124.2 (100% sensitivity/specificity). Age ≤18 years correlated with higher recurrence risk (p < .05; OR 8.9). Tumor size, volume, stage, pre-extirpation procedures, surgical techniques, and intraoperative blood loss had no significant effect.

High β-catenin expression is a strong predictor of JA recurrence, suggesting its potential as a prognostic marker. Targeting β-catenin pathways may aid in recurrence prevention and improved JA management.