Gastrointestinal malignancies mainly affect the middle-aged and elderly population. In the rising trend, it has been observed high mortality in well differentiated and stage I tumors.  Hence, there was a need to evaluate other ancillary tests in addition to conventional clinico-pathological parameters. Various studies have found human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2/neu) overexpression in Gastrointestinal malignancies and its associated prognostic outcome. HER2/neu activates various signaling pathways which leads to cell proliferation and survival, and thereby its overexpression causes excessive tumor cell growth and migration. The aim of this study was to determine the HER2/neu expression and its correlation with the grade and stage of tumor. 50 cases of resected stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum adenocarcinoma were studied. HER/2 neu test immunohistochemistry was applied in the maximum invasive tumor foci and scoring was performed. Approximately 69% cases were Grade 2. In total, 74% cases were at stage T3. Out of 50 cases, 11 were HER2/neu positive and 39 were HER2/neu negative. Statistical correlation was done and chi-square test was applied. A significant correlation was observed between HER2/neu expression with the histological grade and stage of tumor. Role of HER2/neu has already been established in breast and lung carcinomas. There is a definite need to evaluate its role in gastrointestinal cancers, so that in future a trial of Herceptin can be initiated and best treatment option can be availed to the patient.

Dr. Mousmi Agrawal has completed her MD Pathology at the age of 30 years from MGM University and currently working as Senior Resident in AIIMS Raipur. She has published 9 papers in national and international journals and has received Chancellors Gold Medal during her MD Post graduate exit examinations.