Change in PMI during neoadjuvant therapy is a predictive prognostic marker in rectal cancer

Abstract

Background/Aim: Neoadjuvant therapy is often administered to patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between the change in the psoas muscle index (PMI) during neoadjuvant therapy and the prognosis of LARC patients. Patients and Methods: Forty-seven patients who underwent potentially curative surgery for LARC with neoadjuvant therapy were enrolled in this study. We evaluated the relationship between the prognosis and clinicopathological factors, including the prognostic value of a change in the PMI. Results: A >10% decrease in the PMI value was observed in 15 of the 47 patients. A >10% decrease in the PMI value was associated with shorter OS and RFS compared to patients who did not show a >10% decrease in their PMI. The decrease in PMI after neoadjuvant therapy was an independent negative prognostic factor for patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy for LARC. Conclusion: A decrease in PMI after neoadjuvant therapy might predict a poor prognosis in LARC patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy.