Prognostic importance of serum vascular endothelial growth... : European Journal of Cancer Prevention (original) (raw)
Review
Prognostic importance of serum vascular endothelial growth factor in relation to platelet and leukocyte counts in human renal cell carcinoma
1Department of Surgical and Perioperative Sciences, Urology and Andrology
2Department of Medical Biosciences, Clinical Chemistry
3Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology, Umeå University, S-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
Correspondence to: B Ljungberg. Fax: (+46) 90 125 396. E-mail: [email protected]
Received 3 September 2001 accepted 17 December 2001
Abstract
It has been shown that both serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and also platelet counts are associated with survival in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). It is not known, however, whether VEGF in serum relates to the angiogenic activity of the tumour or is derived from circulating blood components. Therefore, the interrelation between serum VEGF, platelet and leukocyte counts compared with health history, clinicopathological findings and outcome was evaluated in patients with RCC. Blood samples were collected before nephrectomy in 161 patients. Serum VEGF165 was assessed by a quantitative ELISA method. Platelet and leukocyte counts were analysed routinely and obtained from medical records. The variables were compared using univariate and multivariate analysis. There were significant correlations between VEGF levels, and platelet (P < 0.001) and leukocyte counts (P < 0.001). Serum VEGF levels, platelet counts, as well as leukocyte counts correlated significantly to stage and grade. Platelet counts were significantly lower in men with medication (P = 0.042), and decreased with age particularly in women (P = 0.001). Age or medication did not affect VEGF levels or leukocyte counts. Both VEGF and platelets gave significant prognostic information in univariate analysis. Using Cox multivariate analysis, VEGF was the last variable to be excluded. Only stage and grade remained as independent prognostic factors. Both VEGF levels and platelet counts gave prognostic information but VEGF was more reliable as predictor of survival in patients with RCC.
© 2002 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.