Lymphocytes and sinus histiocytosis in tumor and matched lymph nodes as predictors of survival in non-small-cell lung cancer.

Lay abstract Aim: We analyzed populations of immune cells in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In addition, we also investigated lymph nodes from the same patient that contained or did not contain cancer cells. Patients & methods: We included 71 patients whose cancer did not return within 3 years and 80 patients whose cancer did return within 3 years after they underwent surgery to remove their tumors. We used various statistical methods to identify factors that can predict survival. Results: Sinus histiocytosis (a widening of ducts in the lymph nodes due to an increased number of certain cells) and the density of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (immune cells that enter the tumor to destroy it) can predict how long patients can survive after surgery or if their tumor will come back quickly. Discussion: Looking at immune cells can help physicians decide which patients need increased follow-up care due to an increased risk for their tumors to return.