ASSESSMENT OF EGFR AND P53 BIOMARKERS IN ORAL SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA: A STUDY FROM A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE IN SOUTH INDIA

Abstract

Introduction: In India, oral cancer ranks among the top three prevalent cancers, accounting for a huge proportion of head and neck cancer–related morbidity and mortality. TP53 mutations play a critical role in oral carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Overexpression or dysregulation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is noted in the majority of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas and is associated with poor prognosis. Aim: This study was conducted to understand the immunohistochemistry expression of p53 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in oral squamous cell carcinoma and assess their correlation with clinicopathological characteristics. Materials and Methods: Oral squamous cell carcinomas reported during the year 2024 were included in the study. Clinicodemographic data, including age, sex, and tumor site, were retrieved from pathology records. Immunohistochemical analysis for p53 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was performed on representative sections. Results were subjected to the statistical analysis. Results: Among the 52 cases studied, strong p53 expression was seen in 76.9%, and EGFR overexpression was noted in 86.5% of cases.  P53 positivity and EGFR overexpression were significantly associated with histological grade (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Oral squamous cell carcinoma frequently exhibits p53 and EGFR immunoexpression, which is strongly linked to tumor aggressiveness and advanced disease. Their combined assessment enhances prognostic evaluation and helps identify patients who may benefit from specific treatment approaches.