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Prognostic role of lymph node regression in patients with esophageal cancer undergoing neoadjuvant therapy

  • 0Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
Pathology Oncology Research : Por +

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October 28, 2024

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October 28, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Lymph node regression (LNR) and N downstaging are reliable prognostic factors for esophageal cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy. Complete LNR and N downstaging significantly improve survival outcomes.

Area Of Science

  • Oncology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Oncology

Background

  • Neoadjuvant therapy is a standard treatment for esophageal cancer.
  • Accurate prognostic markers are crucial for tailoring treatment strategies.
  • Lymph node status is a key determinant of patient survival in esophageal cancer.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To evaluate the prognostic significance of lymph node regression (LNR) status, including LNR grade (LNRG) and N downstaging.
  • To determine the impact of LNR and N downstaging on survival outcomes in esophageal cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy.

Main Methods

  • A systematic literature search was conducted across multiple databases up to March 25, 2024.
  • Meta-analysis of 14 retrospective studies involving 3,212 patients.
  • Outcomes analyzed included overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS).

Main Results

  • Complete LNR was associated with significantly improved OS (HR=0.47) and DFS (HR=0.42).
  • N downstaging demonstrated a significant improvement in OS (HR=0.40) and CSS (HR=0.27).
  • Subgroup analyses by neoadjuvant therapy type and pathological classification confirmed these findings.

Conclusions

  • Lymph node regression (LNR) serves as a robust prognostic indicator in esophageal cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant therapy.
  • Achieving complete LNR and N downstaging are linked to superior survival.
  • These findings support the integration of LNR and N downstaging into routine prognostic assessments.

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