Scientists at the State University of Campinas in Brazil created a marker that may improve predictions for gastric cancer patients. The disease ranks as the fifth most common cancer globally.
The new tool, named VMD, merges radiodensity readings of visceral fat and muscle from standard CT scans. Raised values in fat tissue indicate a poorer outlook, while denser muscle points to better survival chances.
The study developed the marker based on the analysis of routine CT scans of gastric cancer patients treated at UNICAMP. Researchers identified a variable that combines data on the radiodensity of visceral fat and muscle, which is capable of distinguishing those at higher risk of unfavorable disease progression.
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The method captures the difference between fat and muscle radiodensity, providing a clear view of a patient’s metabolic and inflammatory status. In fat tissue, increased radiodensity often signals inflammation, which aligns with worse outcomes. Muscle behaves differently—lower density suggests a poorer prognosis.
To address variations in CT equipment, the team calculated the difference between fat and muscle radiodensity rather than relying on fixed values. This method enhances the marker’s reliability across different machines.
The findings appeared in Clinical Nutrition Espen, with backing from the São Paulo Research Foundation. Though promising, the work remains retrospective and requires confirmation through larger, forward-looking studies.
One remaining question involves whether the body profile measured by VMD can shift over time. Nutritional therapy might help, but this wasn’t examined in the research. It remains unclear if altering this profile could improve outcomes.
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The group is now applying the marker to other cancers, with initial results showing similar potential. Since VMD uses existing CT scans, it could offer extra clinical insights without additional tests.
CT imaging has been a key diagnostic tool since the 1970s, prized for its speed and ability to display body structures clearly. Advances in technology have sharpened image quality while lowering radiation exposure.
The work fits a growing focus in oncology on personalized treatment. If validated, VMD may complement traditional tumor staging in the future and determine the patient’s stage, paving the way for a more personalized treatment approach.