Semi-Automation Of The Ki-67 Proliferative Index Quantification Method In Breast Cancer

Abstract

In this retrospective study, the primary aim was to assess Ki-67 expression levels in breast cancer slide samples and analyze agreement among values obtained by different counting methods, including semi-automated approaches. The Ki-67 proliferative index, a crucial marker for assessing cell proliferation and predicting prognosis in breast cancer, was evaluated through three distinct methods: visual counting, manual counting by two calibrated observers, and a semi-automated approach. All mean values of the Intra-Class Correlation Coefficient obtained were statistically significant (p < 0.01). The lowest coefficient occurred in the comparison between the semi-automated program count and visual counting (0.791), while the highest correlation was between the program count and manual counting (0.996). This study underscores the importance of standardization and reliable methods in Ki-67 evaluation for precise interpretations and consistency in breast cancer cases, where the Ki-67 index plays a critical role in predicting disease progression and guiding treatment decisions.