PhD defence M.H. (Hosein) Aziz

Below is a brief summary about the dissertation:

This thesis examines the prognostic role of both the systemic and local immune response in patients with ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. We conducted a retrospective analysis, revealing that the Systemic Immune Inflammation Index (SIII) is significantly associated with cancer-specific survival and recurrence-free survival. The study also revealed that the prognostic value of SIII could be lost in the presence of high preoperative bilirubin levels.

Furthermore, we found that a low amount of skeletal muscle mass at diagnosis was associated with an increased SIII, suggesting possible induction of cancer cachexia due to inflammation. In patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, an increase in the SIII during treatment was associated with a higher mortality risk. Monitoring SIII during treatment could assist in predicting survival rates.

In another segment, we investigated the tumor immune microenvironment of ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. Long-term survivors exhibited a higher number of B-cells within the tumor microenvironment compared to short-term survivors.

We also explored the relationship between fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies and potential implications for the immune system. Deficiencies in vitamins A, D, E, and K can influence immune function, tumor growth, coagulation, and inflammation. Detecting and addressing these deficiencies could improve survival rates.

Overall, this study underscores the importance of understanding the role of the immune system in the treatment and prognosis of pancreatic cancer.