[Evaluation of several biological markers in the prognosis of patients with node-negative breast cancer].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the practical significance of microvessel count (MVC), c-erbB-2, CD44, cathepsin D and nm23 expression, and clinico-pathological parameters in the prognosis of node-negative breast cancer.

METHODS

Sixty two patients with node-negative invasive breast cancer were treated by surgery alone, and followed-up for at least 10 years. Microvessel count (MVC), C-erbB-2, CD44, Cathepsin D and nm23 expression were studied by immunohistochemical technique. With other clinico-pathological parameters, they were evaluated prognostically.

RESULTS

Univariate analysis showed that the prognostic factors influencing 10-year overall survival rate were MVC, C-erbB-2, stromal cell cath-D and CD44 expression. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that MVC was the sole independent prognostic factor determining 10-year survival.

CONCLUSION

Although MVC, c-erbB-2, stromal cell cath-D and CD44 expression are all of prognostic significance, MVC is most meaningful in evaluating prognosis of node-negative breast cancer patients.