Prognostic significance of tumour-infiltrating T lymphocytes in ovarian cancer: a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis.

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Europe PMCPublished 2025Cancer & OncologyCancer Biology & Genetics
Journal
BMJ open
Record source
Europe PMC Research Library

Abstract / Description

IntroductionOvarian cancer remains a significant clinical challenge due to its aggressive nature and high mortality rate. Tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) play a critical role in the tumour microenvironment, influencing treatment response and patient survival across various cancer types, including ovarian cancer. A systematic review is warranted to consolidate evidence on TILs as prognostic biomarkers in ovarian cancer, with the goals of integrating them into clinical practice to enhance patient outcomes. This study aims to assess the prognostic significance of TILs in ovarian cancer.Methods and analysisA comprehensive literature search will be conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, ScienceDirect and LILACS. No restrictions regarding publication date or language will be applied. Original studies evaluating the role of TILs in women with ovarian cancer will be considered for inclusion. Two independent authors will screen titles and abstracts, and any discrepancies will be resolved through discussion with a third author. The risk of bias in included studies will be assessed using the Quality in Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) tool. Data synthesis will be performed using R software (V.4.3.1).Ethics and disseminationThis study reviews the published data; thus, obtaining ethical approval is unnecessary. The findings of this systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.Prospero registration numberCRD42024543955.
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