MDK and neoplasm: Multivariable analysis revealed T stage and positive MK expression to be independent prognostic factors for disease-free survival after resection (HR = 8.004 and HR = 2.240; both p < 0.001) (Table 2) and AJCC tumor stage was found to be an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (HR = 12.784, p < 0.001) (Table 3).