Metastatic lymph node ratio as a prognostic factor in gastric cancer

Background There is an association between the number of resected lymph node and the number of metastatic lymph nodes in gastric cancer, suggesting that pN category could be influenced by the extension of the lymphadenectomy. This study evaluates this association and proposes a comprehensive use of the ratio as prognostic factor. Method Review of 183 consecutive patients with gastric adenocarcinoma. The association between the number of resected lymph nodes and the number of metastatic lymph nodes was analysed and evaluated with other prognostic factors. Results The number of lymph node metastases increased with the number of resected lymph nodes. The lymph node ratio was a better prognostic factor than the number of metastatic lymph nodes. Conclusions The metastatic lymph node ratio seems to be a good prognostic factor, but needs further evaluation.