Tumor angiogenesis as a major prognostic factor in stage I lung adenocarcinoma

We investigated the correlation between tumor angiogenesis and prognosis of T1NOMO lung adenocarcinoma. Materials and Methods: Forty two specimens resected from patients with T1NOMO lung adenocarcinoma were investigated by immunohistochemical staining with a monoclonal antibody to CD31. The relationship between microvessel count, clinicopathologic factors and prognosis was studied. Results: The microvessel count was significantly higher in cases with vessel invasions than in those without. Univariate analysis showed that microvessel count was related to poorer prognosis. In patients with a high microvessel count (greater than or equal to 38), prognosis was significantly poorer than in those with a low count (<38). Multivariate analysis indicated that the microvessel count and mitosis are prognostic factors in patients with lung cancer, and that the microvessel count is a more important factor than mitosis. Conclusions: Microvessel count may be a major prognostic factor and a useful tool to predict recurrence in patients with T1NOMO lung adenocarcinoma.