RESUMO
Introduction: The Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) is a transmembrane cytoplasmic protein; studies indicate that it contributes to the development and progression of potentially malignant lesions to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). In the present study we determine and characterize the expression of EGFR in samples of oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) and OSCC. Materials and Methods: 54 samples with histopathological diagnosis of OED were selected, 19 of low grade dysplasia (LGD) and 35 of high grade dysplasia (HGD) and a tissue matrix was with 60 samples of OSCC and 9 of normal oral mucosa were used. EGFR detection was performed by immunohistochemical technique. In the photomicrographs, protein expression was deter- mined. Chi square test and Fisher test were used for statistical analysis (P <0.05). Results: 54% of OED and 60% of OSCC showed a significant pattern of high EGFR expression when compared with normal oral mucosa. Discussion: We found a tendency in LGD, HGD and OSCC to over expression of EGFR. Conclusion: There is over expression of EGFR in OED and OSCC, so it could be considered as an early marker of these patholo- gies