Tumor-Infiltrating Cytotoxic T Cells but not Regulatory T Cells Predict Outcome in Anal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

TILs were identified as negative prognostic indicators in anal squamous cell carcinomas with granzyme B+ cytotoxic cells showing highest effect on outcome. This is possibly explained by the selection of therapy-resistant tumor cell clones. No prognostic influence of Treg was found. Knowledge of local immune responses is important for the development of immunotherapeutic strategies.