Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs): clinical-pathological parameters in squamous cell carcinomas of the lower lip.

The objective of this study was to analyze the presence of tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) subpopulations M1 and M2 in squamous cell carcinoma of the lower lip (SCCLL) by immunohistochemitry, and to evaluate the possible role of these subtypes in the development of regional lymph node metastasis and their association with clinical and pathological parameters. Forty-two cases of SCCLL were divided into two groups (21 with and 21 without regional lymph node metastasis). The histopathological grade of malignancy was determined and the material was submitted to double staining with anti-CD68/anti-CD163 and anti-CD68/anti-HLA-DR monoclonal antibodies.

Immunohistochemical expression of metallothionein in pleomorphic adenoma of minor salivary glands: a role in the control of apoptosis?

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign neoplasm of both the major and minor salivary glands. The histological features are diverse and are characterized by the involvement of epithelial-myoepithelial structures. Metallothionein is a cysteine-rich protein present in myoepithelial cells of several benign and malignant neoplasms.

Immunohistochemical expression of EGFR in oral leukoplakia: association with clinicopathological features and cellular proliferation.

Objectives: To investigate the immunoexpression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in a sample of oral leukoplakias (OL) and to determine the receptor' s association with dysplasia, tobacco consumption, lesion site, and proliferation rate. Although EGFR should be overexpressed in some oral leukoplakias, the factors that may interfere with this expression and the influence of this receptor on epithelial proliferation have yet to be investigated.

Study Design: Samples of oral leukoplakias (48) and of normal oral epithelium (10) were immunohistologically examined for expression of EGFR.

Genetic polymorphisms of carcinogen metabolizing enzymes are associated with oral leukoplakia development and p53 overexpression.

Background: Genetic polymorphisms of carcinogen-metabolizing enzyme genes have been associated with the risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral leukoplakia. The overexpression of p53 protein is the most common genetic alteration in head and neck cancer. In the present study the combined or isolated presence of glutathione S-transferases GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1, and the cytochrome P450 oxidases CYP1A1 and CYP2E1 polymorphisms and oral leukoplakia development in a Brazilian sample of individuals was investigated, together with the effect of these polymorphisms on p53 overexpression in the lesions.