[p21ras expression, DNA ploidy and prognosis in colorectal cancer]

83 colorectal cancer patients who underwent radical surgery were studied. Serial sections were carried out for detection of p21ras expression level by means of immunohistochemical assay combined with image analysis technique, measurement of DNA ploidy by flow cytometry and re-confirmation of diagnosis. We found that the high level of p21ras expression indicated a group of tumors with more aggressive behavior and worse prognosis. The five-year survival rate was only 26.83% in patients with p21D > or = 0.24 tumor, compared with 78.57% in those with p21D < 0.24 tumor. Five-year survivors tended to display diploid and had lower p21D. Detection of p21ras expression level (p21D) and DNA index in tumors may be helpful in predicting the outcome of colorectal cancer patients.