Prognostic significance of inflammation-based markers in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis - Report - MDSpire

Prognostic significance of inflammation-based markers in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

  • By

  • Yajun Wang

  • Leyu Zhang

  • Qianyu Liu

  • Yi Wu

  • July 7, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Evaluating the Prognostic Value of Inflammation-Related Markers in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Overview

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the prognostic value of inflammation-based indices in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The pooled hazard ratio (HR) for overall survival (OS) was 1.86 (95% CI: 1.42–2.43) and for progression-free survival (PFS) was 1.74 (95% CI: 1.31–2.30).

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignancy with unique epidemiological and biological characteristics, particularly prevalent in Southeast Asia and linked to Epstein-Barr virus infection. Recurrence and metastasis remain significant challenges. Understanding prognostic factors, including systemic inflammation markers, is crucial for improving patient management.

Data Highlights

MarkerPooled HR for OSPooled HR for PFS
SII2.01-
SIRI1.93-
LMR0.72-

Key Findings

  • Pooled HR for overall survival (OS) was 1.86 (95% CI: 1.42–2.43).
  • Pooled HR for progression-free survival (PFS) was 1.74 (95% CI: 1.31–2.30).
  • SII and SIRI had the strongest associations with poor outcomes (HR = 2.01 and 1.93, respectively).
  • A higher LMR was associated with better prognosis (HR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.53–0.98).
  • No significant publication bias was detected.

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest that systemic inflammation-based biomarkers, particularly SII and SIRI, could serve as independent predictors of survival in NPC. Their integration into clinical practice may enhance prognostic stratification.

Conclusion

Systemic inflammation-based biomarkers are significant predictors of survival in NPC.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Frontiers in Oncology, 2026 -- Prognostic Significance of Inflammation-Based Markers in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
  2. SEOM–TTCC clinical guideline for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (update 2025) | Clinical and Translational Oncology, 2026 -- SEOM–TTCC clinical guideline for nasopharyngeal carcinoma
  3. Frontiers in Oncology — Comparative evaluation of composite inflammatory indices for predicting prostate cancer risk and mortality: a NHANES-based study with external validation
  4. Frontiers in Medicine — Preoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and systemic immune-inflammation index as prognostic biomarkers for postoperative pneumonia and pulmonary complications after thoracic surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  5. Frontiers in Oncology — Efficacy, long-term survival and safety of different PD-1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy in recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  6. Frontiers in Medicine — Parametrial involvement in cervical cancer is associated with systemic inflammatory indices: a retrospective observational study
  7. NCCN Head and Neck Cancers guideline, 2026
  8. SEOM–TTCC clinical guideline for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (update 2025) | Clinical and Translational Oncology | Springer Nature Link
  9. Frontiers | Prognostic Significance of Inflammation-Based Markers in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
  10. Systemic immune-inflammation index and serum lactate dehydrogenase predict the prognosis of non-metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients receiving intensity-modulated radiotherapy | Scientific Reports

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