Tumor-associated tissue eosinophilia of penile cancer

BACKGROUND: Tumor-associated tissue eosinophilia (TATE) occurs in many kinds of cancer. This study analyzed whether TATE improves the survival of penile cancer patients. METHODS: In 17 patients with penile cancer, survival was compared between the TATE-positive group and the TATE-negative group. Tissue eosinophils were observed by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS: In all cases, 5-year survival was 72.9% in the TATE-positive group (n = 8) and 38.9% in the TATE-negative group (n = 9; P = 0.131). In stage III and IV, it was 60% in the TATE-positive group (n = 5) and 0% in the TATE-negative group (n = 5; P = 0.058). Transmission electron microscopy images revealed the vigorous infiltration of tissue eosinophils. CONCLUSIONS: It is suggested that TATE improves the survival of patients with advanced penile cancer. However, a greater number of subjects is needed to prove statistical significance.