Expression and Localization of E-Cadherin in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Background: Findings for the role of E-cadherin in ovarian cancer (OC) are controversial. The aim of this study was to analyze the expression and prognostic role of E-cadherin in OC. Materials and Methods: Expression analysis of E-cadherin was performed by immunohistochemistry in 36 patients (12 primary OC, 15 recurrent OC, 9 benign ovarian lesions). Tumor specimens were collected within OC. Correlation analysis with clinicopathological factors and survival was performed. Results: E-Cadherin was significantly reduced in OC compared to benign ovarian lesions (p=0.024). In primary OC, E-cadherin was comparable in ovarian tumor and corresponding metastatic tumor tissue. E-Cadherin showed no association with clinicopathological factors. A significant correlation between increased volume of ascites and higher E-cadherin immunoexpression was found in primary OC (p=0.029). E-Cadherin expression showed no statistically prognostic significance for survival (p=0.856). Conclusion: The function of E-cadherin in OC remains controversial and needs to be elucidated further in larger studies.