Cyclooxygenase-2 expression in Warthin's tumour

Abstract

Objectives: To determine whether cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is overexpressed in Warthin's tumours, and to characterize its pattern of expression. Methods: Twenty-one paraffin-embedded Warthin's tumour specimens were analysed by immunohistochemical staining for expression of human COX-2. Semi-quantitative analysis of the staining was performed. Results: In all of the specimens, we found that there was overexpression of COX-2 within the epithelial component of the tumours, with no expression in the lymphoid components. There was also overexpression of COX-2 in the salivary duct system of normal parotid tissue. Conclusions: Our results suggest that COX-2 is up-regulated in the epithelial component of Warthin's tumours. Our findings support the hypothesis that Warthin's tumours originate from heterotopic ductal epithelial cells of the parotid gland. The role of COX-2 expression in the pathogenesis of Warthin's tumours remains to be determined.