NUTRITIONAL MARKERS AND HISTOPATHOLOGICAL FEATURES IN COLORECTAL CANCER: A PERSPECTIVE FROM THE COLLEGE OF AMERICAN PATHOLOGISTS (CAP)
Main Article Content
Abstract
Background: Histopathological features recommended by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and nutritional markers are both recognized prognostic factors in colorectal cancer (CRC). However, evidence linking these two domains has not been comprehensively synthesized.
Objective: To review the current evidence on the association between nutritional markers and CAP-defined histopathological features in CRC, identify existing knowledge gaps, and discuss future research priorities.
Overview: Current evidence supports the prognostic value of malnutrition, sarcopenia, serum albumin, and the Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI), while CAP-defined histopathological features remain established predictors of disease outcome. However, most studies have evaluated these factors independently. Direct evidence linking nutritional markers with specific histopathological features, particularly tumor budding and microsatellite instability (MSI), remains limited and inconsistent.
Conclusion: This review highlights an important knowledge gap regarding the relationship between nutritional markers and CAP-defined histopathological features in CRC. Future well-designed prospective studies integrating nutritional assessment with histopathological evaluation are needed to clarify these associations and support integrated risk stratification and personalized treatment.
Keywords
colorectal cancer, nutrition, sarcopenia, histopathological features, College of American Pathologists
Article Details
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