Utility of inflammatory markers as predictors of recurrence in gastrointestinal stromal tumors: Insights from a nomogram-based approach

This text is a Letter to the Editor published in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology, written by Chris B Lamprecht, Tyler Kashuv, and Brandon Lucke-Wold, discussing the prognostic value of inflammatory markers in patients with Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs). The authors analyze a recent study that developed a nomogram-based approach to predict recurrence-free survival (RFS) in GIST patients using systemic inflammatory indicators such as the platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR). While the editorial acknowledges the nomogram’s utility as a cost-effective, practical tool for assessing recurrence risk, it also stresses the need for future research to integrate crucial factors like genetic mutations (KIT and PDGFRA), tumor staging, and a larger, multi-center sample size to enhance the model's accuracy and clinical applicability. The article ultimately calls for continued research to better understand the interplay between inflammation, genetics, and GIST progression to improve personalized oncology strategies.