Immunocytochemical assessment of p53 Protein to Detect Malignancy in Increased Cell-Yeld Brush Cytology from the Biliopancreatic Tree.

Abstract Background Malignancies arising from the
biliopancreatic tree are often diagnostic challenges for the
gastroenterologist and the pathologist, especially when
strictures without masses are present. Aim To evaluate the
diagnostic yield of p53 immunocytology for the detection of
malignancies in material obtained by biliopancreatic tree
brushing by means of an increased cell-yield procedure.
Patients and Methods Cytologic specimens obtained from
biliary and pancreatic tree brushing in 24 patients with biliary
strictures suspected for malignancy were assessed by
conventional Papanicolau staining and p53 immunocytochemistry.
Results Papanicolau staining detected 67% and
p53 87% of the malignancies in the study group. p53
immunocytology displayed excellent sensitivity, specificity,
and diagnostic accuracy. Conclusions p53 immunocytology
may represent a useful diagnostic tool in the detection of
malignancies from biliary and pancreatic tree brushing,
especially when using an increasing cell-yield procedure.