Objective: We sought to study various parameters in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) that might predict nodal metastasis.
Study design and setting: Sixty-four LSCCs were examined with respect to their histopathology and, using immunohistochemistry, their proliferative capacity (MIB1), p53 and cyclin D1 status, and intratumoral microvessel density. The presence of human papillomavirus was ascertained by the polymerase chain reaction.
Results: Histopathologically, most tumors had an infiltrating/mixed growth pattern and a diminished inflammatory reaction at the growing margin. In addition, 56% of the tumors were positive for MIB1, with 64% showing p53 overexpression; 70% were positive for cyclin D1; and 59% showed increased tumor microvessel density. Of 42 cases analyzed, 9.5% were positive for human papillomavirus 16.
Conclusions: Of the parameters studied, a diminished lymphocytic inflammatory response at the periphery (P < 0.05) and cyclin D1 overexpression (P < 0.001) correlated significantly with cervical nodal metastasis at presentation.
Significance: Cyclin D1 overexpression, easily assessed on biopsy samples, may thus help in optimizing therapy at the outset.