DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjams.2025.v13i06.002

Pages: 1244-1250

Background: Epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) remains one of the most lethal gynecological malignancies, primarily due to late-stage diagnosis in the majority of patients. Although advancements in surgical techniques and chemotherapy have improved treatment strategies, overall survival rates have seen minimal improvement. Recent research highlights the critical role of the immune system in tumor progression, particularly the prognostic significance of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), such as CD3+ and CD8+ T cells. These immune cells are associated with enhanced anti-tumor responses and improved patient outcomes, suggesting their potential as both biomarkers and therapeutic targets in EOC. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to detect the CD3 and CD8 positive TIL in EOC & their correlation with grading and staging. Methodology: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Dhaka Medical College from March 2017 to June 2019, involving 50 histologically confirmed epithelial ovarian carcinoma cases. Tissue samples were processed for routine histopathology and immunohistochemical staining to detect CD3 and CD8 tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. Relevant demographic and clinical data were recorded. Cases with prior chemotherapy or recurrence were excluded. Results: Immunohistochemical analysis revealed significant associations between CD3 and CD8 tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and epithelial ovarian carcinoma (p=0.001). Both TIL markers showed strong correlations with high-grade tumors (p=0.007) and advanced-stage disease, particularly in serous carcinoma. Conclusion: Epithelial ovarian carcinoma demonstrates immunological involvement, with CD3 and CD8 TILs significantly associated with high-grade and advanced-stage tumors, especially the serous subtype. TIL evaluation may serve as a valuable prognostic tool and aid in guiding patient management.