[Expressions of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 and vascular endothelial growth factor in primary or recurrent metastatic breast cancers].

Objective: To investigate the expressions of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (Her-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in primary and recurrent metastatic breast cancers and explore their relationship.

Methods: The expressions of Her-2 and VEGF in 60 primary and recurrent metastatic breast cancers were detected using immunohistochemical methods. Their relationship was analyzed.

Results: The positive rates of Her-2 and VEGF in the recurrent metastatic breast cancer were 40.00% and 53.33%, respectively, which were significantly higher than that in the primary breast cancer (18.33% and 31.67%) (P < 0.05). The total diversify rates of Her-2 and VEGF were 28.33% and 35.00%, respectively. Her-2 and VEGF expressions were significantly correlated between the primary and the recurrent metastatic breast cancers( P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Her-2 and VEGF may play synergic roles in the occurrence and development of breast cancer. Over-expressions of Her-2 and VEGF predict poor prognosis.