Background and objectives: Colorectal cancer is a major global health concern, with a significant increase in morbidity and mortality rates associated with metastatic stages. This study investigates the prognostic significance of various clinical and laboratory parameters in patients with metastatic CRC. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort of 188 CRC patients with hepatic metastasis from the OncoHelp Association in Timisoara was analyzed from January 2016 to March 2023. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, and biomarkers, such as lymphocyte counts, as well as various inflammation indices, were examined. Statistical analyses included univariate and multivariate logistic regression, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and ROC curve assessments. Results: Our findings indicate significant associations between survival outcomes and several biomarkers. Higher BMI and lymphocyte counts were linked with better survival rates, while higher values of Neutrophil-Hemoglobin-Lymphocyte (NHL) score, Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR), and Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII) were predictors of poorer outcomes. Notably, the presence of hepatic metastasis at diagnosis was a critical factor, significantly reducing overall survival. Conclusions: The study has expanded the current understanding of prognostic factors in CRC, advocating for a multi-dimensional approach to prognostic evaluations. This approach should consider not only the traditional metrics such as tumor stage and histological grading but also incorporate a broader spectrum of biomarkers. Future studies should aim to validate these findings and explore the integration of these biomarkers into routine clinical practice, enhancing the precision of prognostic assessments and ultimately guiding more personalized treatment strategies for CRC patients.
Background/Objectives: Cardio-oncology has become essential in addressing cardiovascular complications from cancer therapies. While advancements in treatments have improved survival rates, they also increase cardiovascular risks. This study evaluates the cardiotoxic effects of cytostatic treatments, examining the relationship between tumor characteristics, such as histopathology and TNM classification, and cardiovascular complications, aiming to improve cardiotoxicity prevention and management in oncology patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of cancer patients treated with anthracyclines, HER2-targeted therapies, and radiotherapy. Cardiac function was monitored via echocardiography, focusing on global longitudinal strain and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Cardiac troponins and natriuretic peptides were measured to detect subclinical cardiotoxicity, with patients stratified by TNM cancer stage and histopathology. Results: Our analysis identified a significant association between certain cytostatic treatments, such as anthracyclines and HER2-targeted therapies, and a reduction in LVEF, particularly in patients with advanced-stage cancer. Biomarker assessments indicated early signs of cardiotoxicity in patients before clinical symptoms emerged. The findings also demonstrated a higher prevalence of cardiovascular complications in patients with pre-existing risk factors. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of personalized treatment protocols in minimizing cardiotoxicity and improving the quality of life for oncology patients. Regular cardiac monitoring, combined with the use of biomarkers, can help identify high-risk patients early, allowing for timely interventions. Future research should focus on optimizing cardioprotective strategies to mitigate the cardiovascular risks associated with modern cancer therapies. Clinical Trial Registration: N/A (retrospective study).
Background and Objectives: Cardio-oncology addresses the growing concern of cardiovascular complications arising from cancer therapies. Although cancer treatments have greatly enhanced survival outcomes, they frequently carry substantial risks to cardiovascular health. This research examines the cardiovascular toxicity associated with HER2-targeted therapies, focusing on the interconnection between tumor characteristics, including histopathological profiles and TNM classification, and the development of cardiovascular complications. The objective is to identify key correlations that inform better prevention and management strategies for cardiotoxicity in oncology patients. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study analyzed cancer patients undergoing cytostatic treatments, particularly anthracyclines, radiotherapy, and HER2-targeted therapies. Cardiac function was monitored using echocardiographic assessments, including global longitudinal strain and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Patients were stratified based on TNM cancer staging and histopathological findings to evaluate correlations between treatment regimens and cardiovascular outcomes. Results: The analysis revealed a significant association between advanced TNM stages and reduced LVEF, with patients in stage T4 showing the highest prevalence of cardiac dysfunction. Cytostatic treatments, such as anthracyclines and HER2-targeted therapies, were identified as key contributors to cardiotoxicity, particularly in advanced-stage cancer patients. These findings emphasize the importance of regular cardiac monitoring to detect early signs of cardiotoxicity, as patients with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors demonstrated a higher prevalence of complications. Conclusions: This study highlights the need for personalized treatment approaches and tailored cardioprotective strategies to improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for oncology patients. Future studies should prioritize developing improved strategies to reduce the cardiovascular complications linked to contemporary cancer treatments.