The results of the present study demonstrated the important role of local immune reaction in the regulation of CRCa progression into lymph node metastasis. This fact is particularly clear in the case of Granzyme B.
However, TIL is a well-described prognostic factor of CRCa, and some specific markers could improve the selection of patients with increased risk of reccurence. These patients would benefit from the indication of adjuvant oncological treatment and intensive form of dispenserisation, particularly when stage UICC II CRCa is diagnosed.
The most promising prognostic factor based on the presented results is CD57. Comparison of the cohorts with or without metastatic affliction of regional lymph nodes revealed an association between increased density of Serpin B9-positive cancer cells and lymph node metastasis as a novel factor in the mechanisms of CRCa progression.