Expression of DeltaNp63 in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Esophagus

Background: The p63 gene is present as two isoforms, namely TAp63 and deltaNp63. The biological role of deltaNp63 in the progression of esophageal cancer is still controversial. Patients and Methods: The expression of deltaNp63, as well as that of p63, was immunohistochemically examined in 61 resected specimens of squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus. Results: The incidences of a positive deltaNp63 expression were 32 and 64% in carcinomas with and without adventitial invasion, respectively, and 37 and 65% in those with and without lymph node metastasis, respectively (p<0.05). The prognosis was significantly better in the positive deltaNp63 group than in the negative group (p<0.01). However, a multivariate analysis revealed deltaNp63 not to be an independent prognostic factor. Regarding p63, diminished expression was more frequently observed in advanced carcinomas, however, there were no statistically significant differences. Conclusion: The impaired deltaNp63 reflects the progression of squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus. Despite recent advances in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus, it is still considered to be an aggressive carcinoma because of the high frequency of lymph node metastasis as well as invasion to neighboring