First international consensus on the methodology of lymphangiogenesis quantification in solid human tumours

Br J Cancer. 2006 Dec 18;95(12):1611-25. doi: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6603445. Epub 2006 Nov 21.

Abstract

The lymphatic system is the primary pathway of metastasis for most human cancers. Recent research efforts in studying lymphangiogenesis have suggested the existence of a relationship between lymphatic vessel density and patient survival. However, current methodology of lymphangiogenesis quantification is still characterised by high intra- and interobserver variability. For the amount of lymphatic vessels in a tumour to be a clinically useful parameter, a reliable quantification technique needs to be developed. With this consensus report, we therefore would like to initiate discussion on the standardisation of the immunohistochemical method for lymphangiogenesis assessment.

Publication types

  • Consensus Development Conference

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / metabolism
  • Endothelial Cells / pathology
  • Humans
  • Immunoenzyme Techniques / methods*
  • Lymphangiogenesis*
  • Lymphatic Metastasis
  • Lymphatic Vessels / metabolism
  • Lymphatic Vessels / pathology*
  • Membrane Glycoproteins / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / blood supply
  • Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / metabolism

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Membrane Glycoproteins
  • PDPN protein, human
  • VEGFA protein, human
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A