PROGNOSTIC IMPORTANCE OF C-ERBB-2 (HER-2/NEU) EXPRESSION IN EARLY STAGE BREAST CANCER AND ITS RELATION WITH OTHER PROGNOSTIC FACTORS

To predict relapse rate in early stage breast cancer we need prognostic factors independent from anatomic stage. c-erbB-2, a member of the epidermal growth factor receptor's family, has been investigated for this purpose. c-erbB-2 is thought to be related with poor prognosis. We investigated prognostic importance of c-erbB-2 and its relation with standart prognostic factors in early breast cancer patients. Tissue c-erbB-2 positivity of the patients were studied with immunohistochemical method, c-erbB-2 positivity was found in 17 (27%) patients. When c-erbB-2 expression was compared with other prognostic factors, there was a statistically significant weak relation with negative ER status, statistically insignificant weak relation with tumor size and nuclear grade, intermediate relation with PCNA. No relationship between c-erbB-2 and age, menopausal status, stage and axillary lymph node metastasis was found. c-erbB-2 did not have any effect on overall survival (p>0.05) and disease free survival (p>0.05).

Keywords: c-erbb-2, breast cancer, prognosis