[Numerical alteration of chromosome 8 in pleural effusions].

OBJECTIVE

To study the numerical alteration of chromosome 8 and its application for detecting cancer cells in the pleural effusions.

METHODS

In situ hybridization with chromosome 8 centromere probe was carried out in 52 patients with pleural effusions.

RESULTS

In 31 lung cancer patients examined, hyperdiploid chromosome 8 was found in the effusions. The same hyperdiploid of the chromosome was also noted in 4 cases of effusion from adenocarcinoma of breast, mesothelioma and lymphoma. In 15 pleural effusions which were reportedly negative in previous cytological diagnosis, hyperdiploid chromosome 8 was found in 3 cases, and diploid chromosome 8 in another 12 cases by in situ hybridization. After reexemination of the samples from the 3 patients with hyperdiploid chromosome 8, adenocarcinoma cells were found in 2 cases, and the third one was a patient being treated with radiotherapy. Hyperdiploid chromosome 8 also existed in the pleural effusions from 2 cases suspicious of adenocarcinoma.

CONCLUSION

Hyperdiploid chromosome 8 may be a useful marker to ascertain the malignant nature of pleural effusion.