Cellular DNA content in human osteosarcoma: aspects on diagnosis and prognosis

The cellular DNA content was determined in a consecutive series of 26 classical and two paraosteal osteosarcomas by means of single cell cytophotometry. All classical osteosarcomas regardless of histologic type (osteo-, chondro-, fibroblastic) or grade were found to be hyperploid (abnormally increased DNA content) while both paraosteal osteosarcomas proved to be diploid (normal DNA content). Closer analysis of the DNA distribution curves showed that the majority of the classical osteosarcomas exhibited a triploid modal DNA value and more than 90% hyperploid cells. Cytochemical characterization of osteosarcomas may be of prognostic significance in reflecting the degree of malignancy. The results of the present study indicate that cytophotometric DNA analysis, as an adjunct to conventional histologic evaluation, offers an objective means of differentiating between classical and paraosteal osteosarcomas.