Expression of deltaNp63 in squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus

Background: The p63 gene is present as two isoforms, namely TAp63 and deltaNp63. The biological role of deltaNp63 in the progression of esophageal cancer is still controversial. Patients and Methods: The expression of deltaNp63, as well as that of p63, was immunohistochemically examined in 67 resected specimens of squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus. Results: The incidences of a positive deltaNp63 expression were 32 and 64% in carcinomas with and without adventitial invasion, respectively, and 37 and 65% in those with and without lymph node metastasis, respectively (p < 0.05). The prognosis was significantly better in the positive deltaNp63 group than in the negative group (p < 0.01). However, a multivariate analysis revealed deltaNp63 not to be an independent prognostic factor. Regarding p63, diminished expression was more frequently observed in advanced carcinomas, however, there were no statistically significant differences. Conclusion: The impaired deltaNp63 reflects the progression of squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus.