Bcl-xL and Bcl-2 expression in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck

Abstract

These results suggest that disruption of apoptotic control pathways is an important event in the evolution of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. A common mechanism for this disruption involves overexpression of Bcl-xL, Patients whose tumors demonstrate Bcl-2 positivity, even with locoregionally advanced disease, appear to have a high likelihood of cure with aggressive combined modality therapy and may be treated successfully with less toxic therapy.