Negative or weak CD44 membrane staining in less than 10% of tumor cells (score 0) was observed in 18 (27.7%) patients, 15 (23.1%) showed weak membrane staining in at least 10% of tumor cells or moderate staining in less than 10% of tumor cells (score 1+), 18 (27.7%) showed moderate membrane staining in at least 10% of tumor cells or intense staining in less than 10% of tumor cells (score 2+), and 14 (21.5%) showed intense membrane staining in at least 10% of tumor cells (score 3+). The gene discussed is CD44; the disease is neoplasm.