Immunohistochemical expression of periostin in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Periostin is a non- structural extracellular matrix protein with characteristic domains to modify cellular signals and connective tissue microenvironment. It is secreted in various developmental, physiological and pathological conditions. As its role in various cancers have been frequently reported recently, we have attempted to assess the expression of Periostin in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma using Immunohistochemistry. Histopathologically confirmed cases of  Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma and healthy oral mucosa were recruited for the study. Immunohistochemical analysis of these cases were performed using periostin antibody. The Periostin staining intensity and proportionality index was analysed and were scored by two individual observers.The data obtained were tabulated and  analysed using SPSS software version 21. All of the OSCC cases(100%) compared with that of normal healthy oral mucosa cases (only 57.14%) expressed periostin. The Periostin staining in OSCC was predominantly seen in extracellular matrix, fibroblasts around the tumor islands and in areas of desmoplasia. 71.43% periostin expression was seen associated with high grading patterns (Pattern III and IV) thus correlating with enhanced invasiveness.Periostin secreted  in the tumor microenvironment of OSCC can be used as marker of aggressive behaviour as it correlates with poor prognosis.