Prognostic significance of neoadjuvant rectal score in locally advanced rectal cancer after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and construction of a prediction model

Aim

To evaluate the prognostic significance of neoadjuvant rectal (NAR) score after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC), and to develop a nomogram predicting disease-free survival (DFS).

Method

A total of 522 LARC patients undergoing nCRT and surgery were included. NAR scores were calculated using the equation [5pN−3(cT−pT) + 12]^2/9.61, and classified as low (<8), intermediate (8-16), and high (>16). Clinicopathological and survival outcomes were compared. Cox regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors of DFS. A predicting nomogram was developed and validated internally.

Results

For NAR score classification, 193 (37.0%) were low, 183 (35.0%) were intermediate, and 146 (28.0%) were high. Higher NAR score was associated with fewer pCR, lower tumor regression grade (TRG), and higher ypTNM stage. A total of 5-year DFS for low, intermediate, and high NAR groups was 85.6%, 71.9%, and 47.2%, respectively (P < 0.001). NAR score (HR = 2.488, P = 0.002), TRG (HR = 2.811, P = 0.047), CRM involvement (HR = 2.703, P = 0.002), and IMA nodal metastasis (HR = 2.441, P = 0.001) were independent prognostic factors of DFS. A predicting nomogram was developed with C-index of 0.701.

Conclusion

NAR score could help in predicting DFS after nCRT. A nomogram was developed to identify subpopulations with aggressive tumors during clinical decision-making.

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