[The expression of Cath-D, c-erbB-2 and EGFR in breast cancer and its correlation to lymphatic metastasis].

The expression of Cath-D c-erbB-2 and EGFR in breast cancer and its correlation of lymphatic metastases were studied in 277 cases by immunohistochemical technique. Positive staining of Cath-D was detected in 107 cases (38.62%), of which, 89 cases (83.17%) had documented metastasis in the lymph nodes. One hundred and seventy cases (61.38%) stained negative for Cath-D, of which 64 cases (37.64%) had detectable lymphatic metastases. There was a significant difference in the rate of the lymphatic metastases between the Cath-D positive and Cath-D negative groups (P < 0.0001). Fifty-six out of 107 Cath-D positive cases (52.34%) were c-erbB-2 positive as well. However, only 27 out of 170 Cath-D negative cases (15.88%) were c-erbB-2 positive. The positive rate of c-erbB-2 in Cath-D positive group was significantly different from that of Cath-D negative group (P < 0.0001). Among those 107 Cath-D positive cases, 49 cases (45.79%) were EGFR positive. Only 24 cases (14.12%) were EGFR positive among the 170 Cath-D negative cases. The positive rate of EGFR between these two groups was also significantly different (P < 0.0001). The results suggest that Cath-D status can be used as an indicator of the aggressiveness of the breast cancer. Breast cancer cases with a positive Cath-D staining are more likely to have lymphatic metastases and a poor prognosis. Therefore, alternative therapeutic strategies and close follow-ups are needed for these patients.