Prognostic Value of Multiparameter Biomarkers in Pleural Effusion of Patients With Non-small Cell Lung Cancer for Predicting Survival Outcomes

Objective: Pleural effusion is a frequent and clinically significant complication in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), frequently causing debilitating respiratory symptoms, most notably dyspnea. The development of MPE is strongly correlated with unfavorable prognosis in NSCLC patients. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic value of multiparameter biomarkers (including CA125, CEA, CYFRA21-1, NSE, and LDH) in patients with NSCLC complicated by pleural effusion. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, we included 119 patients diagnosed with NSCLC and pleural effusion. We systematically assessed the levels of these biomarkers in pleural effusion and their relationship with overall survival. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to explore the association between these biomarkers and patient prognosis. Results: The study found that levels of CA125, CYFRA21-1, and LDH in pleural effusion were significantly correlated with overall survival, with higher levels associated with shorter survival times. In addition, as the volume of pleural effusion increased, the levels of these biomarkers also significantly rose. Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that age, larger pleural effusion volume, and elevated levels of CA125, CYFRA21-1, and LDH were independent risk factors for overall survival. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that CA125, CYFRA21-1, and LDH in pleural effusion may be potential biomarkers for assessing prognosis in patients with NSCLC and pleural effusion. While these results offer valuable insights into their potential role in clinical practice, further validation through larger, multicenter studies is needed to confirm their prognostic significance.