To evaluate the prognostic utility of the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score specifically in breast cancer outcomes.
Key Findings:
Higher PNI was associated with improved OS (HR = 0.49, 95% CI 0.39-0.61) and longer DFS (HR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.58-0.81).
The association between PNI and pCR was inconclusive (OR = 1.57, 95% CI 1.00-2.47).
Higher CONUT scores were linked to poorer OS (HR = 1.77, 95% CI 1.29-2.44) and shorter DFS (HR = 2.08, 95% CI 1.75-2.47).
Prediction intervals indicated substantial variability in expected effects across studies.
Interpretation:
PNI and CONUT may serve as important prognostic indicators in breast cancer, with higher PNI indicating better outcomes and higher CONUT indicating worse outcomes, suggesting potential clinical applications.
Limitations:
Substantial heterogeneity was observed across studies, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
The results for PNI and pCR were sensitive to individual studies, indicating the need for cautious interpretation.
Conclusion:
PNI and CONUT are potential prognostic indicators in breast cancer, with higher PNI correlating with better survival outcomes and higher CONUT correlating with poorer outcomes.
