Expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in dysplasia of the bronchial epithelium

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is expressed in cells in the cell cycle and has been studied as a marker of proliferation in lung and other tumours. We have noted immunocytochemical differences in PCNA expression between normal and neoplastic bronchial cells. As bronchial dysplasia is considered preneoplastic, we have examined PCNA expression in this condition. PCNA staining in 47 cases of bronchial dysplasia and 32 samples of normal bronchial epithelium was compared. Of the dysplasias, three were mild, 11 moderate, and 33 severe. A significant increase in PCNA counts over normal epithelium was seen only in moderate and severe dysplasia. In dysplasia, mitotic indices showed a significant positive correlation with the percentage of PCNA-positive cells. We conclude that in moderate and severe dysplasias there is an increase in the number of cells expressing PCNA and undergoing division, indicating abnormal growth control.