[Prognostic significance of delayed cutaneous reactivity in 5-year survival in colorectal cancer: a prospective study]

A series of 84 patients operated on for colorrectal cancer-Duke's stages A:6, B:22, C:51 and D:5- are studied prospectively and with a 5 year follow-up. All of them were treated in the same hospital and with identical criteria during a period of time of two years. Immunoglobulins (A, G, M) and skin reactivity measured through a multiantigen device were determined preoperatively and at 48 hours and 30 days after operation. Data analysis was done once real survival at 5 years was known. Immunoglobulins changes showed no significance in relation to survival in this series. Preoperative skin reactivity values measured in mms demonstrated prognostic significance for patients in stage C when considering survivors -p < 0.05- and decreased -p < 0.01- at five years. Numerical values of skin reactivity done with a delayed hypersensitivity multiantigen compound may represent and additional prognostic factor to be considered in advanced colorrectal cancer patients.