Immunohistochemically detected lymph node micrometastases in nodale negative breast cancer: Correlation with ''etablished'' and ''newer'' prognostic factors

Objectives: The prognostic value of immunohistochemically detected micrometastases in lymph nodes as well as its association with newer prognostic factors is discussed controversially. Patients and methods: Using a monoclonal pancytoceratine antibody 1807 axillary lymph nodes of 122 pT(1-2)N(0)M(0)-patients were examined. Histological findings, established and newer prognostic factors were investigated additionally. The mean follow up time was 50 months. Results: The detection of micrometastases in 16 of 122 (13.1%) patients were related with a prognostic disadvantage for recurrence free survival (p = .03). Tumour size, grading, vessel invasion and S-phase, but not the detection of micrometastases, were confirmed as independend prognostic factors in nodal negative patients by Cox-regression. Conclusion: Immunohistochemically detected micrometastases in axillary lymph nodes are of prognostic and therapeutic value but they are not independent prognostic factors.