The clinicopathological parameters significance of CD133 and Nestin in epithelial ovarian cancer: a meta-analysis

This meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the association of CD133 and Nestin with epithelial ovarian cancer. Databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang) were searched for relevant studies updated in August 2017. CD133 and Nestin expression were estimated by immunohistochemistry. Statistical analysis was performed by RevMan. A total of 18 studies were included in this meta-analysis. High expression of both CD133 and Nestin was associated with late International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage (p < 0.00001), larger size of residual cancer (p < 0.05). CD133 overexpression was also associated with higher histological grade (p = 0.0006) and lymph node metastases (p < 0.00001). Nestin overexpression was associated with a higher rate of treatment resistance (p = 0.0007). Positive expression of CD133 and Nestin may be associated with aggressive biological behaviors in epithelial ovarian cancer.