M2-Polarized Tumor-Associated Macrophage Infiltration of Regional Lymph Nodes Is Associated With Nodal Lymphangiogenesis and Occult Nodal Involvement in pN0 Pancreatic Cancer

Abstract

M2-polarized TAM infiltration of RLNs is significantly associated with nodal lymphangiogenesis and occult nodal involvement in pN0 pancreatic cancer. Node-infiltrating M2-polarized TAMs may facilitate nodal lymphangiogenesis via the production of vascular endothelial growth factor C and thus promote RLN metastasis.