Bcl-2 oncogene expression in estrogen receptor-positive and negative breast carcinoma.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate Bcl-2 oncogene expression in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive and negative breast carcinomas. Methods: A study involving 72 cases of infiltrating ductal carcinoma of the breast in postmenopausal women divided into two groups: Group A (ER positive, n = 37) and Group B (ER negative, n = 35). Immunohistochemical analysis of bcl-2 expression was carried out semiquantitatively based on the percentage of stained tumoral cells and the intensity of staining. The chi-square test was used in the statistical analysis of the data and significance was established at p < 0.05. Results: Bcl-2 oncogene expression was statistically greater in tumors of Group A (59.5%) compared to those of Group B (8.6%), (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Bcl-2 had a significantly greater expression in the ER-positive breast tumors compared to ER-negative tumors.