Cervical Cancer Outcome and Tumor-Associated Macrophages: Research Evidence

Abstract

Inflammation is a key factor in cancer promotion. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), as part of the tumor microenvironment, are often associated with the progression of tumors and a worse prognosis in many cancers, namely on cervical cancer. This work exhaustively summarizes the conclusions of the different studies published concerning TAMs function in cervical cancer, from in vitro studies using cancer cell lines to the clinical perspective (histological samples-based studies). Most studies have led to the conclusion that TAMs increased density is directly related to increased severity of a malignant cervical lesion. Additionally, TAMs are normally polarized into an M2 phenotype, benefiting and promoting tumor progression, resulting in a worse disease outcome. The tumor microenvironment is also a highly critical contributor that not only influences tumor natural history but also modulates the specific immune response.