OBJECTIVE: To determine the role of DNA image cytometry (DNA ICM) as a useful predictor of outcome following the resection of colorectal hepatic metastases. STUDY DESIGN: In 75 patients (56 R0 resections) with resected colorectal hepatic metastases, DNA ICM was performed on paraffin-embedded specimens. The DNA content of 250 tumor cells was determined in each specimen, and the 2c level was evaluated using 30 granulocytes from the same sample. RESULTS: Common algorithms of DNA ICM, such as maximum DNA content, 5c exceeding rate, 9c exceeding rate, 2c deviation index and the DNA grade of malignancy, identified a group of patients with favorable survival following R0 resection. Clinical findings failed to serve as a prognostic factor. A multivariate analysis revealed the maximum DNA content to be an independent factor influencing postoperative survival. CONCLUSION: DNA ICM is associated with the biologic aggressiveness of colorectal hepatic metastases and is useful as a prognostic marker in patients after resection.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the role of DNA image cytometry (DNA ICM) as a useful predictor of outcome following the resection of colorectal hepatic metastases. STUDY DESIGN: In 75 patients (56 R0 resections) with resected colorectal hepatic metastases, DNA ICM was performed on paraffin-embedded specimens. The DNA content of 250 tumor cells was determined in each specimen, and the 2c level was evaluated using 30 granulocytes from the same sample. RESULTS: Common algorithms of DNA ICM, such as maximum DNA content, 5c exceeding rate, 9c exceeding rate, 2c deviation index and the DNA grade of malignancy, identified a group of patients with favorable survival following R0 resection. Clinical findings failed to serve as a prognostic factor. A multivariate analysis revealed the maximum DNA content to be an independent factor influencing postoperative survival. CONCLUSION: DNA ICM is associated with the biologic aggressiveness of colorectal hepatic metastases and is useful as a prognostic marker in patients after resection.