Expression and clinical significance of P16 and P53 protein in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Objective To investigate the expression and clinical significance of P53 and P16 proteins in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Methods The expression of P53 and P16 protein in 55 cases with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma was detected by immunohistochemical technique. Results Expression was tested positive for P16 protein in 27 cases (positive rate 49%) and for p53 protein in 33 cases (positive rate 60%). The expression of P16 and P53 proteins was closely correlated to lymph node metastasis,and the expression of p16 was also shown somehow linked to a family history. Conclusion P53 and P16 may have important roles in development and progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Expression of P16 and P53 proteins may be relevant for evaluation of malignancy degree in esophageal cancer.