Human Alpha-Fetoprotein in the Epidermal Cells of Bowen's Disease

Abstract

Human alpha-fetoprotein (HAFP) was demonstrated in clusters of atypical cells of an extensive Bowen's disease involving the pubic area. Frozen sections were studied by indirect immunofluorescence using monospecific rabbit anti-HAFP antiserum or purified rabbit anti-HAFP antibody followed by staining with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled goat anti-rabbit gamma-globulin and by a direct technique using FITC-labeled rabbit anti-HAFP Fab2 fragments. Sections of fetal liver served as positive controls and sections of adult human skin and liver were used as negative controls. Preabsorption of the anti-HAFP antibodies with purified HAFP blocked the fluorescence. This finding adds Bowen's disease to the list of premalignant disorders which possess HAFP as an oncofetal marker of their malignant potential. HAFP might possibly enhance malignant behavior through interference with cellular immunosurveillance mechanisms.

Alpha-fetoprotein-producing renal cell carcinoma

“…In addition, Soltani ef al. 27 proved the presence of AFP in the epidermal cells of patients with Bowen's disease. It is possible that AFP is also produced in some cases ofectodermal abnormalities.…”

Carcinoembryonic Antigen and Related Glycoproteins in Psoriasis

“…On the other hand, we could not immunolocalize the oncofetal antigen alpha-fetoprotein in the benign psoriatic hyperplasia. The existence of alpha-fetoprotein could, however, be demonstrated in the premalignant skin disorder of Bowen's disease [21]. Despite the fact that CEA is also associated with malignant skin tumors [22], its expression in psoriatic suprabasal cells does not indicate any neoplastic transformation since psoriasis does not turn into a malignant disorder.…”