Prognostic Value of Anti- IgG in Breast Cancer and the Modification Effects of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines: A 13-Year Prospective Cohort Study.

PURPOSE

() is associated with several gynecological tumors; yet its prognostic role in breast cancer remains unclear. Thus, we investigated the prognostic role of anti- immunoglobulin G (IgG) in breast cancer patients and the modification effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

METHODS

The serum levels of IgG and four pro-inflammatory cytokines were measured. Cox regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), including product terms to assess the modification effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines on the association between IgG and breast cancer prognosis.

RESULTS

From 2008 to 2018, 1121 breast cancer patients were recruited and followed up until December 31, 2021, with a median follow-up time of 63.91 months (interquartile range: 39.16-90.08 months). Patients positive for IgG showed HRs of 1.09 (95% CI, 0.67-1.78) for overall survival (OS) and 1.24 (0.87-1.78) for progression-free survival (PFS), compared to those who were negative. These associations became statistically significant in women aged 50 years or younger (HR=1.43, 95% CI=0.79-2.58 for OS; HR=1.79, 95% CI=1.16-2.77 for PFS). Positive IgG serology was associated with adverse prognostic effects among patients with higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-8, and IL-1β), but with favorable prognostic effects for those with low levels. These interactions were particularly significant in those aged 50 years or younger.

CONCLUSION

In breast cancer patients younger than 50 years of age or with higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, infection appeared to have a negative prognostic impact. These findings highlight the significance of in predicting prognosis and personalized therapy for breast cancer patients.