Evaluation of the prognostic value of CD117 and CK20 biomarkers in urinary bladder carcinoma

Over-expression of CD117 and cytokeratin 20 (CK20) is seen in many malignancies. Given that few studies have been conducted regarding the role of these biomarkers in the etiology of bladder tumours, this study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of CD117 and CK 20 biomarkers in the benign and malignant tumours of urinary bladder carcinoma.

This case-control study was conducted on 62 bladder tumours (17 benign tumours and 45 malignant tumours). The immunohistochemistry technique was used to assess CK20 and CD117 biomarkers in tumour samples.

There is no significant difference between benign and malignant groups in terms of CD117 (p=0.094). No significant difference was observed between expression of CD117 in terms of grade (p=0.184). However, a significant difference was observed between benign and malignant groups in terms of CK20 expression (p=0.022). Moreover, a significant difference was observed between CK20 expression in terms of grade (p=0.009). In addition, a significant difference was observed between the age of patients considering grade (p<0.047).

The results of the current study supported the role of CK20 in the carcinogenesis of urinary bladder carcinoma. Moreover, it seems that CK20 expression may be considered as a poor prognostic parameter in transitional bladder carcinoma. Furthermore, these findings indicated that patients with higher age had higher grade. In addition, assessment of CD117 expression did not play a main role in tumour progression. Therefore, it is not recommended for bladder tumours.