The platelet to high density lipoprotein -cholesterol ratio is a valid biomarker of nascent metabolic syndrome.

Abstract

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major global problem, and inflammation and insulin resistance appear to be key underpinnings in this cardio-metabolic cluster. MetS predisposes to an increased risk of diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). It has a procoagulant diathesis which included increased platelet activity and impaired fibrinolysis. High density lipoprotein (HDL) appears to be anti-thrombotic. Accordingly, we examined the ratios between platelets to HDL-cholesterol(C) and adiponectin (Adipo) in patients with nascent MetS without the confounding of diabetes, ASCVD and smoking to determine their validity as biomarkers of MetS. Patients with nascent MetS (n = 58) and matched controls (n = 44) were recruited. Fasting blood samples were obtained for complete blood counts, basic metabolic panel, lipids, insulin, and Adipo. Ratios of platelets to HDL-C and Adipo were calculated. Following adjustment for adiposity, only the platelet: HDL ratio was significantly increased in MetS and increased with severity of MetS. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the platelet: HDL-C area under the curve (AUC) significantly added to both platelets and platelet lymphocyte ratio AUCs. Also the platelet: HDL-C ratio correlated with all cardio-metabolic features of MetS, high sensitivity C-reactive protein, insulin resistance chemerin, and leptin. The ratio of platelets: HDL-C is significantly increased in patients with nascent MetS and appear to be a valid biomarker of MetS. It could also emerge as a biomarker for athero-thrombotic risk. However, these preliminary findings need confirmation in large prospective studies.