Lymph node ratio is negatively correlated with the Crohn’s-like lymphoid reaction to the tumor and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in colorectal cancers

Abstract

Aim: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers with increasing incidence. Lymph node ratio is reported as a prognostic factor in colorectal cancer patients. The tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and lymphoid reaction around the tumor, indicating the immune response of the body, are reported to correlate with prognosis. This study aims to investigate the association between lymph node ratio, tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte, and lymphoid reaction in colorectal cancers.

Materials and Methods: A total of 119 patients with colorectal carcinoma were histopathologically reviewed. The lymph node ratio, the percentage of positive lymph node numbers to the total number of sampled lymph nodes was calculated. The lymph node ratio was compared to the histopathological and clinical parameters, particularly tumor budding, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, Crohn’s-like lymphoid reaction, and overall survival.

Results: The tumors with a high number of tumor budding and a low number of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and Crohn’s-like lymphoid reaction rate were significantly associated with increased lymph node ratio. There was no significant relationship between lymph node ratio and overall survival.

Conclusion: The lymph node ratio is closely correlated with tumor budding, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and Crohn’s-like lymphoid reaction in colorectal cancers. As they are all important prognostic factors in colon cancer, their relationship can offer insights into the disease's progression and potential outcomes.