Prognostic significance of annexin II , human epididymis protein (HE-4) and claudin in endometrial carcinoma

Introduction: Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most prevalent malignant tumors of the female reproductive system worldwide. Annexins are membrane binding proteins with important role in tumor development and progression. Human Epididymis Protein (HE-4) is a novel marker for gynecolgical tumors. Claudins are proteins of tight junction category playing an important role in cell adhesion and tumor spread. Material and methods: Seventy blocks of paraffin-embedded tissues of endometrial carcinoma cases. Immunohistochemical evaluation of Annexin II , HE- 4 and Claudin-7 staining was performed. Clinical follow-up to all cases was done every three months. Results: Positive Annexin II,HE-4 expression were observed in 88.6% and 77.1% of EC respectively. Significant correlation was found between expression of both Annexin II and HE-4 and FIGO stage, decreased both overall and disease free survival rates. Positive Claudin-7 expression was observed in 40% of EC, with significant correlation with high grade only, however, no correlation with other clinical parameters or survival analysis was detected. Conclusion: Annexin II, HE-4 and Claudin-7 are prognostic factors for endometrial carcinoma and could be used in molecular targeted therapy.