From the Research
To calculate the Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) score, you need to use the formula: PNI = albumin (g/L) + 5 × total lymphocyte count (10^9/L), as indicated in the most recent and highest quality study 1. The PNI score is a useful tool for predicting outcomes in various cancers, including breast cancer, as shown in the study published in 2021 1. The formula for calculating PNI is based on serum albumin concentration and absolute lymphocyte count, which reflects the nutritional and inflammatory status of a patient. Some key points to consider when calculating PNI include:
- Using the correct units for albumin (g/L) and total lymphocyte count (10^9/L)
- Ensuring accurate measurement of these parameters to obtain a reliable PNI score
- Interpreting the PNI score in the context of the patient's overall clinical condition and cancer type The study by 1 found that a high PNI value was associated with longer disease-free survival and overall survival in breast cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Other studies, such as 2, 3, and 4, have also demonstrated the prognostic value of PNI in various cancers, including follicular lymphoma, myelofibrosis, and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. However, the study by 1 is the most recent and highest quality study, and its findings should be prioritized when calculating and interpreting PNI scores.