Abstract
BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to evaluate distribution and clinical impact of the SS18-SSX fusion gene in patients with synovial sarcoma in China. METHODS: We collected and analysed the clinical data of 88 patients using univariate and multivariate survival analysis. HEK 293T and NIH 3T3 cell lines were transfected with the SS18-SSX1 or SS18-SSX2 gene to determine the respective involvement of these fusion genes in cell proliferation and invasion. RESULTS: Overall survival was significantly better among SS18-SSX2 cases (P=0.001), FNCLCC grade 2 cases (P<0.001), and UICC stage 1 or 2 (P<0.001) by univariate and multivariate survival analysis. SS18-SSX1-positive cells were more proliferative and invasive than SS18-SSX2-positive cells. CONCLUSION: SS18-SSX fusion type is a significant prognostic factor for patients with synovial sarcoma.