Dynamic changes of hematological indices in oropharyngeal cancer patients treated with radiotherapy

Abstract

Background Hematological indices assist in predicting clinical outcomes. Objectives To explore changes of hematological indices on oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) patients received radiotherapy and their association with survival. Material and methods The white blood cell count (WBC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC), absolute lymphocyte count (ALC), hemoglobin (Hb), platelet (Plt), albumin (Alb), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) at baseline, 1-, 3-, 6- and 12-months follow-up were retrospectively collected. The trajectory of indices was described. A linear model with random effects was to describe indices’ changing rate and trend. Univariable Cox analysis was to assess the correlation between indices and survival. Results Of the 85 patients, WBC and ALC dropped during acute phase and gradually recovered, while NLR and PLR increased during acute phase and subsequently declined (all p < .01). Higher absolute value of nutritional indices (Alb and Hb) was associated with better prognosis (p < .05). In contrast, patients with higher absolute value or upward trend of inflammatory indices (ANC, Plt, NLR and PLR) had worse survival (p < .05). Conclusions and significance The short- and long-term changes of indices differed in OPSCC patients received radiotherapy, and absolute values and dynamic changes of indices had the potential to be prognostic factors.