Assessing the prognostic value of C-reactive protein/albumin ratio and lactate/albumin ratio in critically ill patients

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: The ability to predict the fate of critically ill patients admitted to an intensive care unit is very important as there are only a few studies which have focused on this aspect. Our study focused to determine the relationship between C-reactive protein/albumin ratio (CAR) and lactate/albumin ratio (LAR) and intensive care unit stay, the requirement for vasopressor and mechanical ventilator support, and recovery and mortality in the patients admitted to critical care units. Methods: The study group comprised 100 patients who were admitted to critical care units. These patients were evaluated using a structured proforma, detailed case history, and clinical examination. Blood sample collection was done immediately after admission, and serum albumin, lactate, and C-reactive protein levels were estimated in these patients. Results: The mean age of the patients was 54.05. 74% of the patients were males. The common diagnosis was COVID bronchopneumonia. The patients with high LAR and high CAR values had either increased risk of mortality or increased duration of stay in the hospital (P = 0.0001). Patients with a low albumin level and high CRP required ventilator support, which was statistically significant. Patients who needed inotropic support and mechanical ventilator support had higher CAR (P = 0.001). Patients who received inotrope support had higher ESR and CRP levels. Conclusions: CAR and LAR are better indicators of mortality and duration of stay. CAR was found to be a better indicator of mortality than LAR, and it was also noted that the patients who required inotropes and mechanical ventilator support were found to have a higher CAR.