Prognostic importance of serum vascular endothelial growth factor in relation to platelet and leukocyte counts in human renal cell carcinoma

Abstract
It has been shown that both serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and also platelet counts are associated with survival in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). It is not known, however, whether VEGF in serum relates to the angiogenic activity of the tumour or is derived from circulating blood components. Therefore, the interrelation between serum VEGF, platelet and leukocyte counts compared with health history, clinicopathological findings and outcome was evaluated in patients with RCC. Blood samples were collected before nephrectomy in 161 patients. Serum VEGF165 was assessed by a quantitative ELISA method. Platelet and leukocyte counts were analysed routinely and obtained from medical records. The variables were compared using univariate and multivariate analysis. There were significant correlations between VEGF levels, and platelet (P P