Thyroid hormones ratio can predict outcomes in patients with advanced colorectal cancer

This study investigated the impact of the thyroid hormones (TH) on survival outcomes of patients with colorectal cancer treated with regorafenib (Stivarga). Researchers suggested that TH ratio can predict the outcomes in these patients.

TH such as FT₃ (free triiodothyronine) and FT₄ (free thyroxine) are released into the body from the thyroid gland. They have different roles, including cell growth. Prior studies showed that TH are associated with tumor growth and effectiveness of cancer treatments.

It has been shown that low levels of FT₃ are associated with worse survival. Other studies showed that FT₄ levels are associated with better physical condition and survival in the elderly. The role of the FT₃/FT₄ ratio as a predictive factor for patients with metastatic (spread to other parts of the body) colorectal cancer remains under investigation.

This study included information about 73 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer treated with regorafenib. All patients had their levels of FT₃ and FT₄ measured before treatment. They were followed up for an average of 15.5 months.

The average overall survival in patients with low FT₃/FT₄ ratios was shorter (4.8 months) than in patients with high ratios (7.6 months). Patients with a high ratio had a 57% higher odds of having a better survival. High FT₃/FT₄ ratios were associated with a 41% higher chance of a better survival.

The study concluded that high ratios of TH are strongly associated with better outcomes in patients with advanced colorectal cancer treated with regorafenib.

This study did not take into account conditions that may interfere with the levels of TH, such as liver impairment. Further, larger studies are needed for more conclusive results.