Ki-67 is a nuclear protein that is expressed in proliferating cells and may be required for maintaining cell proliferation. Ki-67 has been used as a marker for cell proliferation of solid tumors and some hematological malignancies. A correlation has been demonstrated between Ki-67 index and the histopathological grade of neoplasms. Assessment of Ki-67 expression in renal and ureter tumors shows a correlation between tumor proliferation and disease progression, thus making it possible to differentiate high-risk patients. Ki-67 expression may also prove to be important for distinguishing between malignant and benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors.
