Relationship of Serum Transferrin Levels to Overall Survival in Cancer Patients: Findings from a Multi-Center Cohort Analysis
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By
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Qianqian Zhao
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Kai Sun
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Xiaoxiao Wu
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Fangqi Shen
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Xi Chen
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Chunhua Song
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Xiaolin Wang
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Hongxia Xu
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Minghua Cong
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Hanping Shi
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Pingping Jia
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January 26, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Relationship of Serum Transferrin Levels to Overall Survival in Cancer Patients: Findings from a Multi-Center Cohort Analysis
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
| Condition | |
| Key Mechanisms | |
| Target Population | Cancer patients aged 18 and older with confirmed malignant tumors, including specific types like esophageal and head and neck cancers. |
| Care Setting | |
Key Highlights
- Transferrin levels correlate with nutritional status and survival outcomes in cancer patients.
- Low transferrin levels are linked to poor prognosis and increased risk of malnutrition.
- Transferrin serves as a negative acute-phase protein affected by systemic inflammation, impacting immune response.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Assess transferrin levels to evaluate nutritional status and prognosis in cancer patients, with specific thresholds.
Management
- Consider transferrin levels in treatment planning and nutritional interventions for cancer patients, particularly in high-risk groups.
Monitoring & Follow-up
Risks
Patient & Prescribing Data
Transferrin can identify malnutrition even when other markers like albumin are normal, influencing treatment decisions.
Clinical Best Practices
- Incorporate transferrin measurement in routine assessments for cancer patients, ideally every 1-3 months.
References