Background: Previous reports have suggested the significant association of t(14;18)
(q32;q21) and follicular lymphoma (FL). However, little information is available in the
literature on the relationship between BCL2 protein, BCL2 gene status in FL and the
patient outcomes. Also, understanding of IGH/BCL2 molecular rearrangement using
real time PCR (RT-PCR), in follicular lymphoma in relation to survival might provide
a more accurate and rational method of risk stratification to guide treatment and might
suggest new therapeutic approaches as well. Methods: This study evaluated the relative
frequency of t(14;18) by RT-PCR and its apoptosis-related BCL2 protein expression by
an immunohistochemical assay (IHC) in fifty FL cases in tissues. In addition, we
evaluated the relation of BCL2 protein expression to the translocation, together with the
relation of both t(14;18) and BCL2 protein expression to the clinico-pathological
features and survival data including progression free survival (PFS); and overall
survival (OS) in order to evaluate their prognostic role in FL. Results & conclusion:
There was a significant association of the t(14;18) with BCL2 protein expression,
grading of FL, and the OS. In addition, there was a significant association of BCL2
protein expression with the grading of FL, OS, International Prognostic Index (IPI)
score and performance status. However no significant association of t(14;18) or BCL2
protein expression with the other clinico-pathological features, and PFS.
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