Immunohistochemical expression of syndecan-1 in oral dysplastic epithelium

Background: In stratified squamous epithelia, syndecan-1 is proposed to function as a cellto cell adhesion molecule, and plays an important role in regulation of cell growth and differentiation during the developmental process. Oral cancer is a disease with complex etiology, so biological behavior in carcinomas preceded by dysplastic states is difficult to assess and predict its prognosis. Hence, syndecan-1, a recently recognized tumor marker has been proved to be an eminent diagnostic and prognostic tool in assessing biological behavior of various potentially premalignant andmalignant lesions. Materials and Methods: The study group consisted of 40 specimens of premalignant stateand 10 specimens of normal mucosa. Thesections were stained withhematoxylin and eosin, andimmunohistochemicallyusing syndecan-1 a primary antibody and was observed under light microscope. Results: Expression decreased with the decreasing grades of dysplasia. Conclusion: Syndecan-1 can be efficiently used in early detection and diagnosis of oral carcinoma.