Can flow cytometrically determined DNA ploidy and S‐phase fraction predict regional metastasis in squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity?

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The value of flow cytometric analysis of DNA ploidy and S-phase fraction (SPF) as an indicator of regional metastasis in oral cancer is currently being debated. Intratumoral heterogeneity makes this problem complex. METHODS: Intratumoral DNA ploidy heterogeneity and intratumoral SPF variation were examined using multiple specimens from 31 surgically resected specimens taken from patients with oral cancer without preoperative therapy. Flow cytometric analysis of single biopsy specimens from 79 patients with oral cancer was also undertaken to ascertain their value as indicators of regional metastasis. RESULTS: Forty-five percent (14 of 31) of tumors showed intratumoral ploidy heterogeneity. Intratumoral SPF variation in the 31 tumors ranged from 0.2% to 6.9% (mean, 3.3%). Multivariate analysis showed that a SPF greater than 27% was the most important parameter for predicting regional metastasis. CONCLUSIONS: DNA ploidy is heterogeneous within a tumor, whereas SPF is relatively stable and can be correlated with regional metastasis in oral cancer.