Background: Circulating adiponectin levels are inversely correlated with the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study was designed to evaluate the association between adiponectin levels and the clinicopathological variables of CRC and to analyze the possible prognostic value of adiponectin in predicting relapse-free survival.
Patients and methods: Baseline adiponectin and serum tumor markers were analyzed in 60 patients with non-metastatic CRC followed-up from time of surgery for at least three years or until relapse.
Results: The median adiponectin levels were lower in CRC patients (8.3 microg/ml) than controls (13.1 microg/ml, p <0.001). Moreover, median adiponectin concentration gradually decreased with increase in tumor stage. Low pre-surgical adiponectin levels were found in 52% of the relapsing patients compared to 26% (p=0.037) of the non-relapsing patients. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that stage of disease (OR (odds ratio)=15.9, p<O.O1) and low adiponectin levels (OR=4.66, p<0.05) were independent predictors of recurrent disease.
Conclusion: Low serum adiponectin might represent an adjunctive tool in risk prediction for CRC recurrence.