p53 negativity, CDC25B positivity, and metallothionein negativity are predictors of a response of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma to chemoradiotherapy

AIM: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is generally sensitive to chemoradiotherapy (CRT), but some cases are not. Using a retrospective analysis, we aimed to identify the predictors of the response by esophageal squamous cell carcinoma to definitive CRT.METHODS: The intensities of expression of p53, Ki67,Bcl-2, Bax, cyclin D1, VEGF, CDC25B, and metallothionein (MT)were evaluated immunohistochemically in the biopsy specimens obtained before CRT, and the intensities of their expression were tested for correlations with the clinical effects of CRT.RESULTS: The esophageal squamous cell carcinomas with negative p53, positive CDC25B, and negative MT expression were found to be significantly more sensitive to CRT. In addition, p53 positivity and CDC25B positivity respomd well to CRT.CONCLUSION: Esophageal squamous cell carcinomas with negative p53,positive CDC25B, and negative MT expressions respond well to CRT. Even with p53 positivity,if with CDC25B positivity, CRT can be expected.