Nodal metastasis and survival in oral cancer: Association with protein expression of SLPI, not with LCN2, TACSTD2, or THBS2

Rob Noorlag, Petra Van Der Groep, Frank K. J. Leusink, Sander R. Van Hooff, Michaël H. Frank, Stefan M. Willems, Robert J. J. Van Es

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Abstract

Background Gene expression profiling revealed a strong signature predicting lymph node metastases in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Four of the most predictive genes are secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), lipocalin-2 (LCN2), thrombospondin-2 (THBS2), and tumor-associated calcium signal transducer 2 (TACSTD2). This study correlates their protein expression with lymph node metastases, overall survival (OS), and disease-specific survival (DSS). Methods Two hundred twelve patients with OSCC were included for protein expression analysis by immunohistochemistry. Results SLPI expression correlates with lymph node metastases in the whole cohort, not in a subgroup of cT1 to 2N0. SLPI expression correlates with OS (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.61) and DSS (HR = 0.47) in multivariate analysis. LCN2, THBS2, and TACSTD2 show no correlation with lymph node metastases, OS, or DSS. Conclusion Although SLPI expression correlates with lymph node metastases, it has no additional value in determining lymph node metastases in early oral cancer. However, it is an independent predictor for both OS and DSS and therefore a relevant prognostic biomarker in OSCC.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1130-1136
JournalHead and Neck
Volume37
Issue number8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Aug 2015
Externally publishedYes

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