[Immunohistologic tumor cell detection in lymph nodes in node negative breast cancer: correlation with "established" and "recent" prognostic factors].

OBJECTIVES

The prognostic value of immunohistochemically detected micrometastases in lymph nodes as well as its association with newer prognostic factors is discussed controversially.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Using a monoclonal pancytoceratine antibody 1807 axillary lymph nodes of 122 pT1-2N0M0-patients were examined. Histological findings, established and newer prognostic factors were investigated additionally. The mean follow up time was 50 months.

RESULTS

The detection of micrometastases in 16 of 122 (13.1%) patients were related with a prognostic disadvantage for recurrence free survival (p = .03). Tumour size, grading, vessel invasion and S-phase, but not the detection of micrometastases, were confirmed as independent prognostic factors in nodal negative patients by Cox-regression.

CONCLUSION

Immunohistochemically detected micrometastases in axillary lymph nodes are of prognostic and therapeutic value but they are not independent prognostic factors.