Significance of assessment of microvessel density (MVD) and mast cell density (MCD) by combined immunohistochemical and histochemical methods in cutaneous malignancies

Abstract

Introduction: Angiogenesis is a complex event mediated by several angiogenic factors released from cancer cells and immune cells. There is compelling evidence that mast cell accumulation among the peritumoral inflammatory infiltrates contributes to a favourable microenvironment for tumor development and metastasis. The present study aimed to evaluate the relationship between mast cells and microvessels by applying the double staining CD34/toluidine blue in cutaneous malignancies. Materials and Methods: The study consisted of 50 cases of cutaneous malignancies. Combined Immunohistochemical and Histochemical methods used to study the microvessels and mast cells. Results: A significant correlation between the mast cell count and microvessel density was observed in all 3 cutaneous malignancies. Statistical analysis of the linear correlation between MCD and MVD was also performed (P