Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as a Prognostic Marker in Cervical Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Zhuang Xieyan, Li Yan, Zheng Hongfeng, Fu Langjing
Primary Institution: Gynecology Department of Mingzhou Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
Hypothesis
Does the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) predict survival outcomes in cervical cancer patients?
Conclusion
Higher pre-treatment NLR values are significantly associated with poorer overall survival and progression-free survival in cervical cancer patients.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients with increased NLR prior to treatment exhibit reduced overall survival.
- Elevated NLR significantly impacts disease-free survival and recurrence rates.
- High NLR is linked to poorer treatment outcomes across various cancer stages.
Takeaway
If a patient has a high neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio before treatment, they might not live as long or have as good a chance of not getting worse compared to those with a lower ratio.
Methodology
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 38 retrospective cohort studies evaluating the relationship between NLR and patient clinical outcomes.
Potential Biases
Potential publication bias due to the predominance of studies from Asian countries.
Limitations
The studies included were retrospective, and there was significant heterogeneity in NLR thresholds across studies.
Participant Demographics
The study included patients from various regions, predominantly Asia, with a mix of cancer stages I-IV.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.00001
Confidence Interval
1.44-1.74
Statistical Significance
p<0.00001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website