Methodology

Evaluation of 7q31 region improves the accuracy of EGFR FISH assay in non small cell lung cancer

Laura Casorzo , Mara Corigliano , Paolo Ferrero , Tiziana Venesio and Mauro Risio

Unit of Pathology. Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, Strada Provinciale 142, 10060 Candiolo-Torino, Italy

author email corresponding author email

Diagnostic Pathology 2009, 4:36doi:10.1186/1746-1596-4-36

Published:	4 November 2009

Abstract

Background

Increase of EGFR gene copy number consequent to gene amplification and/or polysomy of chromosome 7 has been significantly associated with better clinical outcome in Non Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with Tyrosin-Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs).

The primary method to detect EGFR copy number is FISH (Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization), that in lung cancer requires a precise standardization due to the presence of intratumor heterogeneity and high frequency of chromosome 7 polysomy.

Recommendations and interpretative guidelines to discriminate NSCLC patients into FISH positive (gene amplification and high chromosome 7 polysomy) and FISH negative have been proposed by the University of Colorado Cancer Center (UCCC). However, in a subset of cases the distinction between EGFR amplification and chromosome 7 polysomy can be controversial because of a complex pattern of multiple EGFR and centromere signals.

Methods

In order to distinguish more accurately these two genetic events, 20 NSCLC FISH positive patients, showing a controversial pattern of EGFR and centromere specific signals, were further evaluated for the status of 7q31 distal region.

Results

A discrepancy between FISH results obtained with UCCC scoring system and 7q31 control was evidenced in 2 patients (10%).

Conclusion

Our data strengthen the usefulness of 7q31 region evaluation to discriminate EGFR amplification from chromosome 7 polysomy in controversial EGFR FISH positive cases. Since it has been reported a possible different contribution of amplification and polysomy to TKIs susceptibility in NSCLC, the clear distinction between these two genetic events may be important to identify a subset of patients more responsive to the therapy.