Abstract

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) occurs as a result of accumulation of different types of genome damage. BRAF mutations appear at an early stage of CRC carcinogenesis

Purpose: The purpose is to examine and compare BRAF expression in tumor tissue in synchronous/metachronous adenomas and CRC in connection with clinical and morphological indicators and evaluate its role as predictive marker.

Materials and methods: Materials from 18 synchronous/metachronous colorectal adenomas and 21 CRCs were observed. We used a BRAF mouse monoclonal antibody for immunohistochemical analysis.

Results: There are no statistically significant difference between anti-BRAF antibody expression percentage and tested indicators. There was no statistically significant difference between the protein expression and clinico-pathological indicators. Based on logistic regression analysis, a direct correlation was established between BRAF protein expression area and occurrence of lymph node metastases.

Conclusion: Accumulation of BRAF in CRC can be used as a prognostic marker for the risk of lymph node metastases. Despite its low prevalence (5%–8%), BRAF V600 CRC has been widely studied due to the poor prognosis.  Some data suggest a residual benefit from monoclonal antibodies such as cetuximab or panitumumab when given in monotherapy or with combination with chemotherapy. Due to the low prevalence of this mutation, it is necessary large-scale studies for further investigations in phase II/III trials in order to improve  prognosis, treatment and survival [14].

Keywords: BRAF, synchronous/metachronous adenomas, CRC, lymph node, metastases

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