Prognostic Significance of Platelet-derived Growth Factor-BB Expression in Human Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinomas

Abstract

Background: Cancer metastases are commonly found in the lymphatic system and tumor lymphangiogenesis requires the interplay of several growth factors. The expression of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C in esophageal cancer was investigated to define their clinicopathological significance. Materials and Methods: Using immunohistochemistry, the expression of PDGF-BB and VEGF-C was examined, along with lymphatic vessel density (LVD) in 53 patients with esophageal cancer. Results: PDGF-BB and VEGF-C expression was positive in 31 cases (58.5%) and 38 cases (71.7%), respectively, and expression correlated with lymph node metastasis and lymphatic invasion. Furthermore, PDGF-BB expression correlated with the depth of tumor invasion and the size of the tumor, and PDGF-BB-positive patients had a significantly poorer prognosis than PDGF-BB-negative patients. The LVD in positive PDGF-BB or VEGF-C tumors was higher than in negative tumors. Conclusion: PDGF-BB may play a pivotal role in lymphangiogenesis and tumor growth in esophageal cancer.