Overexpression of SOX11 and TFE3 in Solid-Pseudopapillary Neoplasms of the Pancreas

Abstract

Objectives: To characterize the expression of SOX11 and TFE3 proteins in solid-pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPNs) and their histologic mimickers. Methods: Immunohistochemistry for SOX11, TFE3, and β-catenin was performed on 31 cases of surgically resected SPNs. Neuroendocrine tumors, acinar cell carcinomas, and pancreatoblastomas served as controls. Results: Nuclear immunoreactivity for SOX11 was detected in all SPNs and five of 31 control tumors. Nuclear immunoreactivity for TFE3 was detected in 30 SPNs and three control tumors. Nuclear immunoreactivity for β-catenin was detected in all SPNs and four control tumors. The combination of three markers as immunohistochemical panels resulted in optimal sensitivity and specificity. Conclusions: Both SOX11 and TFE3 were overexpressed in SPNs and may be involved in the pathogenesis. Clinically, SOX11 and TFE3 can be potentially used as diagnostic markers in distinguishing indeterminate SPNs from their histologic mimickers.