Expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and epidermal growth factor receptor in primary and recurrent glioblastoma multiforme.

Purpose: To investigate the pattern and level of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in a series of high grade primary and recurrent glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and correlation with time to recurrence and patients' survival following therapy. The relationship between COX-2 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) immunoreactivities was evaluated.

Materials And Methods: Specimens of 14 primary and 14 recurrent GBMs (eight pairs) following surgery and full course radiation therapy were processed for immunostaining on COX-2 and EGFR.