The proliferation rate of intracranial tumors as defined by the monoclonal antibody KI 67. Application of the method to paraffin embedded specimens.

60 intracranial tumors have been studied immunohistochemically to determine the proliferation rate by staining for the monoclonal antibody KI-67, which recognizes a nuclear antigen expressed by cells in proliferation. In gliomas a clear correlation of stained nuclei to the histologically determined degree of malignancy was found: slow growing astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas had an average proliferation rate of 1%, more malignant forms of 7-10%. Glioblastomas were found to have a growth fraction of 15%. Metastases had an even higher rate of 20% proliferating cells. In meningiomas the proliferation rate was mainly about 1%, but in three cases it was between 5% and 7%. Whether this is indicative for a higher risk of tumor recurrence, remains to be correlated to the clinical course. Hemangiopericytomas had a proliferation rate of 9% and 16%, respectively, the latter recurring within four months. It may be concluded from the results of this study, that investigation of intracranial tumors with KI 67 may be of prognostic value and can possibly contribute to an individualized tumor therapy.