Prognostic role of hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, platelet (HALP) and modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS) in predicting intensive care needs in cancer patients: a retrospective study

Aims: Early identification of clinical deterioration and intensive care unit (ICU) needs in patients with solid tumors is crucial for improving outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive role of the HALP score and the modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS) in forecasting ICU admissions. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 302 patients with solid tumors who were hospitalized between May and July 2024. HALP and mGPS scores were calculated using laboratory values obtained at admission. Patients were divided into two groups based on the median HALP score. ICU transfer status was compared between groups along with clinical and laboratory parameters. Results: ICU transfer was required in 26.5% of the patients. ICU need was significantly more common in patients with low HALP scores and high mGPS values (p=0.01 and p<0.01, respectively). Metastatic patients had a significantly higher ICU transfer rate compared to non-metastatic patients (p=0.01). There was no significant association between ICU requirement and comorbidity status (p=0.59) or tumor type (p=0.10). Conclusion: HALP and mGPS are simple, accessible prognostic tools reflecting systemic inflammation and nutritional status. These scores may contribute to the early identification of high-risk patients during hospitalization and support timely clinical decision-making regarding ICU admission in cancer patients.