A New Predictive Tool for Optimization of the Treatment of Brain Metastases from Colorectal Cancer After Stereotactic Radiosurgery

AIM: To develop a predictive tool for survival after stereotactic radiosurgery of brain metastases from colorectal cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Out of nine factors analyzed for survival, those showing significance (p<0.05) or a trend (p≤0.06) were included. For each factor, 0 (worse survival) or 1 (better survival) point was assigned. Total scores represented the sum of the factor scores.

RESULTS: Performance status (p=0.010) and interval from diagnosis of colorectal cancer until radiosurgery (p=0.026) achieved significance, extracranial metastases showed a trend (p=0.06). These factors were included in the tool. Total scores were 0-3 points. Six-month survival rates were 17% for patients with 0, 25% for those with 1, 67% for those with 2 and 100% for those with 3 points; 12-month rates were 0%, 0%, 33% and 67%, respectively. Two groups were created: 0-1 and 2-3 points. Six- and 12-month survival rates were 20% vs. 78% and 0% vs. 44% (p=0.002), respectively.

CONCLUSION: This tool helps optimize the treatment of patients after stereotactic radiosurgery for brain metastases from colorectal cancer.