Flow cytometric DNA analysis of oral squamous cell carcinoma in Iraqi patients

Abstract

We studied the DNA content, DNA index and cell cycle parameters that are reliable markers for assessing the proliferative activity and aggressiveness of malignancies. Cytometric DNA analysis was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin embedded sections from 36 Iraqi patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma. The results showed that 20 of 36 cases [55.5%] were diploid, while 15 cases [41.7%] were aneuploid. Significantly higher S-phase fractions and higher DNA indices characterized aneuploid tumours. Nuclear DNA analysis as part of the evaluation of oral squamous cell carcinoma will influence the selection of appropriate treatment strategies.