Correlation of β-catenin expresssion and metastasis in tongue squamous cell carcinoma.

Purpose: It has been reported that the oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in tongue shows a more infiltrative profile, aggressive clinical course and poor prognosis, which may be related to a higher metastatic potencial. The aim of the present study was to assess the expression of β-catenin in OSCC of the tongue and its correlation with tumor metastasis.

Methods: Twenty four cases were selected and divided in two groups: metastatic group (n=12) and non-metastatic group (n=12).