Assessment of extracellular matrix proteins (laminin and fibronectin) in adenoid cystic carcinoma of salivary gland using morphometric method

Abstract

Background

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is an uncommon form of malignant epithelial neoplasm. It arises within major and minor salivary glands as well as mucous glands of the upper respiratory tract. It is characterized by high clinical malignancy, with unclear prognosis and unstable clinical course.

In histological examination of the tumour fibrillar structures are found in the extracellular matrix, containing fibronectin, type IV collagen and laminin.

Aim

The aim of the present study was to assess the protein components of the extracellular matrix – laminin and fibronectin.

Materials/Methods

The study group included 30 patients with ACC of major salivary glands. The expression of immunohistochemical reaction for laminin and fibronectin was assessed using computerized analysis of obtained images.

Results

The analysis showed no significant differences in mean laminin and fibronectin positive reaction areas. Analysis of the proteins depending on histological ACC subtype showed that fibronectin expression was significantly lower in tubular cancer compared to other types. For laminin no significant expression difference was found.

Conclusions

In the future the immunochemistry of laminin and fibronectin may become a useful element of prognosis assessment in patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma.