Prognostic value of immuno-expression of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) & B-Cell Lymphoma (BCL-2) as apoptotic biomarkers in oral squamous cell carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Prognostic value of EGFR and BCL-2 in OSCC

Abstract

Background: Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, plays a crucial role in cancer development and progression. Biomarkers like EGFR and BCL-2 are known to regulate apoptosis and have been studied in various cancers, including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The expression patterns and prognostic implications of these biomarkers could help in predicting patient outcomes. To address this research question, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies examining the prognostic significance of two apoptotic biomarkers, EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) and BCL-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2), in OSCC.
Objective: By elucidating the prognostic value of EGFR and BCL-2 immunoexpression in OSCC, this systematic review aimed to contribute to predicting the immunoexpression value of EGFR and BCL-2.
Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the prognostic significance of immunostaining of EGFR and BCL-2 in patients with OSCC. The PICO criteria were applied to OSCC patients, defining the population, intervention (immunoexpression of EGFR and BCL-2), and outcome (prognostic significance). This systematic review was registered with PROSPERO to ensure transparency and avoid duplication. A comprehensive search strategy was developed using relevant keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms related to OSCC, EGFR, BCL-2, immunohistochemistry, and prognosis. Electronic databases such as PubMed and SCOPUS were searched, along with reference lists from relevant articles. Data extraction included author, publication year, patient characteristics (sample size, age, gender), and outcomes related to overall survival.
Results: EGFR is frequently overexpressed in OSCC, and its expression has been associated with aggressive tumour behaviour and poor prognosis. High EGFR expression is often correlated with reduced survival rates in OSCC patients. High BCL-2 expression has been associated with tumour progression and poor prognosis in OSCC patients.
Conclusion: Overall, the immunohistochemical expression of EGFR in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) appears to hold significant prognostic value. However, further research is needed to validate these findings and to optimise the clinical utility of EGFR as a prognostic biomarker in OSCC management. Likewise, evidence suggests a prognostic role for BCL-2 immunohistochemical expression in OSCC.Additional studies are required to fully elucidate its significance and potential implications for patient management and treatment decision making.