Identification of Postoperative Margins of Glioblastoma Multiforme Using Gold Nanoparticles Conjugated to Epidermal Growth Factor Antibodies

Abstract

Background: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults. Complete resection is impossible. Overexpression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) by the tumor has been associated with the level of malignancy and possibly with prognosis. Monoclonal antibodies may be used to identify tumor borders. The aim of the present study was to investigate the value of immunostaining with anti-EGFR antibodies conjugated to gold nanoparticles (GNPs) for detecting tumor infiltration into adjacent tissue.