Does angiogenesis have a prognostic value in squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx?

Abstract Introduction: Angiogenesis marks a tumour’s transition to a systemic disease. It is a useful prognostic and predictive factor; yet, its relationship to prognosis in squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx is controversial. Aim of this study was to evaluate the significance of angiogenesis in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Patients and methods: A prospective study was conducted in the Otorhinolaryngology Department of Ain Shams University. Patients with laryngeal cancer, between 2006 and 2012, were enrolled. After surgery, histopathological examination with grading of tumours and immunostaining with CD34 antibody was carried out. Patients were followed up for 2 years and reassessment with immunostaining was carried out for recurrent tumours. Results: Eighty cases were included. Results showed that tumours associated with a higher mean microvessel count had a highly significant association with nodal metastasis, recurrence and subsites, with poorer prognosis. Conclusion: Results suggest that angiogenesis can be used as a prognostic factor in patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. © 2015, The Egyptian Oto - Rhino - Laryngological Society.