Exploring Brain Differences in Lung Cancer Patients with Varying Lymph Node Statuses: A Preliminary Study Based on DTI-ALPS

Motivation: As research on lung cancer's pathological mechanisms advances, the impact of tumors on the brain has gained attention. Goal(s): This study aims to investigate brain differences in lung cancer patients with varying lymph node statuses to address this clinical knowledge gap. Approach: DTI-ALPS was used to analyze ALPS indexes and measure PVS volume fractions in 21 subcortical and 48 cortical regions. Results: The Planum Temporale's PVS volume fraction was higher in the lymph node metastasis group , while the Right Lateral Ventricle's PVS volume fraction was lower. Additionally, the Right Lateral Ventricle's PVS volume fraction correlated positively with ALPS indexes and negatively with Ki67. Impact: This study offers a novel perspective on how lung cancer lymph node status impacts the central nervous system, revealing the interaction between tumor behavior and the brain, and suggesting that lymph node metastasis may affect the brain microenvironment.