CD 44 exon v6 as a predictor of lymphatic metastases in cervical carcinoma--an immunocytochemical study of 94 cases.

The relation between expression of several splicing variants of the CD 44 glycoprotein by tumor cells and the increased risk of metastases was discussed recently. By means of an immunocytochemical study (imprint cytology specimens from 94 invasive cervical carcinomas) we have shown a significant correlation between expression of CD 44 v6 and invasion of lymphatic vessels, lymphangiosis carcinomatosa in the primary tumor and the total number of positive pelvic lymph nodes. Expression of CD 44 v6 was not correlated with staging, grading and histological type. CD 44 v6 could therefore be considered as a predictor of lymphatic metastases in cervical carcinoma.