Comparative genomic hybridization in extramammary Paget's disease

Background Extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) is a distinct skin cancer of unknown histogenesis. Data from genome-wide surveys for chromosomal aberrations in EMPD are limited. Objectives To identify chromosomal aberrations that are present in EMPD. Methods Fifteen cases of EMPD were analysed by comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). We used pooled DNA CGH, instead of studying a single sample. In addition, immunohistochemistry was performed for detection of androgen receptor (AR). Results The most recurrent change was amplification at chromosomes Xcent-q21 and 19, and loss at 10q24-qter. In addition, expression of AR, located in chromosome X, was found in six cases. Conclusions Results suggest that AR may play a role in EMPD tumorigenesis.