Multicenter Validation of a RAR-Based Nomogram for Predicting Postoperative Progression in HBV-Related Hepatocellular...

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Oncology
• Biomarker Research

Background:

• The red cell distribution width-to-albumin ratio (RAR) is a biomarker for systemic inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Its predictive value for postoperative recurrence in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC) was previously unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of RAR in predicting postoperative recurrence and progression in HBV-HCC patients.
• To develop and validate a predictive model for individualized risk stratification.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 1,011 HBV-HCC patients undergoing surgery.
• Utilized receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and restricted cubic spline (RCS) modeling to assess RAR performance.
• Developed and validated a nomogram incorporating RAR and other clinical factors.

Main Results:

• RAR demonstrated predictive capability for progression-free survival (PFS) with an AUC of 0.662.
• A nonlinear association between RAR and progression risk was observed, with risk plateauing at higher RAR levels.
• RAR was identified as an independent predictor of postoperative PFS (HR=4.40).

Conclusions:

• The red cell distribution width-to-albumin ratio (RAR) is an independent predictor of postoperative recurrence in HBV-HCC.
• A RAR-based nomogram provides a practical tool for personalized PFS estimation and improved postoperative risk stratification.