Survivin expression as an independent predictor of overall survival in pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Context: Survivin is an antiapoptotic protein with a role in tumorigenesis and suggested prognostic value in several proliferative diseases.

Aims: This study aimed to examine the role of survivin as a prognostic marker in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

Settings And Design: Fifty-one specimens of PDAC were assessed for survivin expression by immunohistochemistry.

Subjects And Methods: Overall survival and 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival were retrieved retrospectively.

Statistical Analysis Used: Bivariate analysis was conducted using Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests, while survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan-Meier statistics.

Results: Of the 51 assessed cases, 49% were positive for survivin. Survivin expression was significantly correlated 1-year survival and overall survival, particularly in bcl-2 positive cases.

Conclusions: Survivin may be implicated in the bcl-2 and p53 pathways and therefore in the biology of PDAC. Its potential use as a survival predictor and therapeutic target represent a promising field.