Inflammation markers in lung cancer: prognostic and predictive value

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Biomarker Research

Background:

• Lung cancer is a leading cause of mortality globally, characterized by complex inflammatory processes.
• Inflammation markers, including proteins, cells, and genes, play a significant role in lung cancer development and progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review commonly studied inflammation markers in lung cancer.
• To summarize prognostic and predictive scores and indexes for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC).
• To discuss the potential of inflammation markers in guiding precision medicine for lung cancer.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature on inflammation markers in lung cancer.
• Focus on C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor family, and prostaglandin E synthase 3.
• Emphasis on clinical practice-based scores and indexes for prognostic and predictive value.

Main Results:

• Several inflammation markers and clinical scores demonstrate prognostic and predictive potential in lung cancer.
• These markers can indicate overall survival, therapeutic response, and tumor immune characteristics.
• Simpler, cost-effective clinical scores show promise for routine application.

Conclusions:

• Inflammation markers and derived scores are valuable tools for lung cancer management.
• Limitations such as assay standardization and response complexity need addressing.
• Advancements in biotechnology and clinical insights can enhance marker utility for precision medicine in lung cancer.