[Bcl-2 gene protein expression in salivary gland tumors].

Background: Salivary gland tumors have heterogeneous pathological features. Oncogene Bcl-2 product expression inhibits apoptosis and therefore is important for tumor proliferation.

Aim: To assess the immunohistochemical gene Bcl-2 protein expression in salivary gland tumors.

Material And Methods: Twenty seven salivary gland tumors were selected from the archives of the Pathology Department of Temuco Regional Hospital. There were 20 pleiomorphic adenomas, 4 cystic adenoid carcinomas and three mucoepidermoid carcinomas. Immunohistochemical gene Bcl-2 protein expression was determined in paraffin included pathological slices.

Results: All pleiomorphic adenomas expressed the protein, specially in tubulo ductal structures, solid and trabecular areas. All cystic adenoid carcinomas expressed the protein in myoepithelial cells. Two mucoepidermoid carcinomas were positive, only in the epidermoid areas.

Conclusions: immunohistochemical gene Bcl-2 protein was expressed in virtually all benign and malignant salivary gland tumors. This observation suggest an important role of this protein in the development of these tumors.