Cell proliferation and differentiation in squamous cancer

Abstract

Cellular differentiation is generally regarded as an important histological predictor of tumour behaviour. Verrucous carcinoma is a very well-differentiated tumour characterised by slow enlargement and an unsatisfactory response to radiotherapy. Tumour cell kinetic studies using the intravenous administration of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdUrd) before tumour sampling have shown these tumours to have high labelling indices and short duration of DNA synthesis. These values result in short potential cell doubling times of these tumours although they then have a well-differentiated appearance histologically. Study of 20 other squamous cell carcinomas has shown no relationship between grade and cell proliferation.