Role Of Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte Ratio Research Articles

Predictive value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio for clinically significant prostate cancer

Purpose: The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), one of the inflammatory markers, can be calculated simply from peripheral blood samples. In this study, the role of NLR in predicting significant prostate cancer (sPC) before prostate biopsy was investigated. Materials and methods: Patients who underwent prostate biopsy between 2017 and 2022 at the National Taiwan University Hospital were enrolled prospectively. NLR was calculated before the biopsy. sPC was defined as an unfavorable-intermediate or higher risk of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network risk classification. Results: Among 484 enrolled patients, 164 sPC (33.9%) and 320 benign/insignificant prostate cancer (isPC; 66.1%) patients were diagnosed. The sPC group was older and had a higher prostate-specific antigen (PSA), smaller prostate volume, higher PSA density, more advanced clinical T stage, and more family history of prostate cancer than the benign/isPC group. There was no difference in neutrophil count (P = 0.929), lymphocyte count (P = 0.927), or NLR (P = 0.931) between groups. NLR failed to predict sPC in univariable (odds ratio, 1.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.93–1.12; P = 0.7) and multivariable (odds ratio, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.79–1.12; P = 0.506) logistic regression models, respectively. The area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic curve in the model consisted of age, PSA, prostate volume, T stage, and family history of prostate cancer was 0.882 (95% CI, 0.849–0.914). There was no statistical difference when the model included NLR (P = 0.625). Conclusion: NLR did not differ between sPC and benign/isPC groups. NLR cannot predict sPC successfully before prostate biopsy.

Association Between Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Sepsis Severity in ICU Patients.

Background Sepsis is a potentially fatal condition that necessitates prompt identification and assessment of its severity for effective management. However, evaluating sepsis severity using the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II) scores can be complex and costly. This study aimed to assess the association between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and sepsis severity, as well as the role of NLR as a predictive indicator of sepsis severity in ICU patients. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among 180 ICU-admitted patients at Benazir Bhutto Hospital (BBH) in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from January 2022 to January 2023. Participants were enrolled using defined inclusion and exclusion criteria along with consecutive sampling. Following ethical approval and informed consent, data were collected using a self-structured form. The study population was divided into three groups based on sepsis severity, which was assessed via the SOFA score. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25.0 (Released 2017; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) through chi-squared tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson's correlation, and a simple linear regression model, with a significance threshold set at p < 0.05. Results In the study population of 180 patients, the frequencies of sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock were 69 (38.34%), 86 (47.78%), and 25 (13.88%), respectively. Significant variations were observed among the three study groups in the means of the PaO2/FiO2 ratio, mean arterial pressure, Glasgow Coma Scale score, total bilirubin level, serum creatinine level, platelet count, SOFA score, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, and NLR (p < 0.05). Pearson's correlation analysis indicated a strong positive correlation between the NLR and SOFA score, with a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.80 and significance at p < 0.001. Furthermore, linear regression analysis identified NLR as a significant predictor of sepsis severity, with a beta coefficient (β) of 3.55 and a 95% CI of 1.92-5.60 (p < 0.001). Conclusions In the current study, a positive and significant correlation was found between the NLR and the severity of sepsis. Higher NLR values were associated with increased SOFA scores, indicating a greater severity of sepsis. This study supports the use of NLR as a complementary and cost-effective tool for the early detection of high-risk patients with sepsis, facilitating timely interventions and improving outcomes, particularly in under-resourced healthcare settings.

A Review of the Prognostic Significance of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Nonhematologic Malignancies.

Biomarkers are crucial in cancer diagnostics, prognosis, and surveillance. Extensive research has been dedicated to identifying biomarkers that are broadly applicable across multiple cancer types and can be easily obtained from routine investigations such as blood cell counts. One such biomarker, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), has been established as a prognostic marker in cancer. However, due to the dynamic nature of cancer diagnosis and treatment, periodic updates are necessary to keep abreast of the vast amount of published data. In this review, we searched the PubMed database and analyzed and synthesized recent literature (2018-February 2024) on the role of NLR in predicting clinical outcomes in nonhematologic malignancies. The search was conducted using the PubMed database. We included a total of 88 studies, encompassing 28,050 human subjects, and categorized the findings into four major groups: gastrointestinal cancer, cancers of the urinary tract and reproductive system, lung cancer, and breast cancer. Our analysis confirms that NLR is a reliable prognostic indicator in cancer, and we discuss the specific characteristics, limitations, and exceptions associated with its use. The review concludes with a concise Q&A section, presenting the most relevant take-home messages in response to five key practical questions on this topic.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio at diagnosis as a biomarker for survival of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Introduction The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has previously been reported to be associated with survival in ALS. To provide further information about the role of NLR as a biomarker in ALS, we performed a systematic review, analyzed data from our local cohort of ALS subjects and performed a meta-analysis. Methods (1) The systematic review used established methods. (2) Using data from our cohort of subjects, we analyzed the association of NLR with survival. (3) Meta-analysis was performed using previous studies and our local data. Results (1) In the systematic review, higher NLR was associated with shorter survival in all studies. (2) In our subjects, survival was significantly shorter in patients in the highest NLR groups. (3) Meta-analysis showed subjects with highest NLR tertile or with NLR >3 had significantly shorter survival than other subjects. Discussion This study supports NLR as a biomarker in ALS; high NLR is associated with poor survival.

Association of inflammatory biomarkers with overall survival in burn patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionThe inflammatory response to burn injuries can lead to organ dysfunction that ultimately results in increased mortality and morbidity. This meta-analysis was conducted to determine the efficacy of inflammatory biomarkers, including the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), procalcitonin (PCT), and C-reactive protein (CRP) as predictive tools of mortality among burn patients.Material and methodsThe biomarker levels of survivors and non-survivors were consolidated according to guidelines for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Three main databases were searched electronically: PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, on December 8, 2022. The Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS) was used to evaluate and score the methodological quality of the included studies. The standard mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was utilized.ResultsTwenty-four studies were included in our systematic review and meta-analysis, (3636 total burn patients), of whom 2878 survived. We found that deceased burn patients had elevated levels of NLR (SMD = 0.60, 95% CI; 0.19–1.00, P < 0.001), CRP (SMD = 0.80, 95% CI; 0.02–1.58, P = 0.04), and PCT (SMD = 0.85, 95% CI; 0.45–1.24, P < 0.001), compared to survivors. However, we found no association between PLR and mortality among burn patients (SMD = 0.00, 95% CI; -0.14–0.15, P < 0.001). In addition, CRP was significantly higher in non-survivors (SMD = 0.80, 95% CI; 0.02–1.58, P =0.04). Similar results were also found about PCT (SMD = 0.85, 95% CI; 0.45–1.24, P < 0.001). When we analyzed the PCT data, collected in the first 24-48 hours, we found similar results; the PCT level was significantly higher in non-survivors in the immediate postinjury-period (SMD = 0.67, 95% CI; 0.31–1.02, P < 0.001). There was no publication bias among studies on the role of NLR in burn (Egger’s test P = 0.91). The based cut-off values for NLR (13), CRP (71), and PCT (1.77) yielded sensitivities of 69.2%, 100%, and 93.33%, and specificities of 76%, 72.22%, and 72.22% respectively.Discussion/ConclusionsPCT is a marker of sepsis, therefore its elevated level is presumably associated with a higher incidence and severity of sepsis among non-survivors. In addition, NLR and CRP are promising biomarkers for predicting and guiding prevention against burn deaths in clinical settings.

Predictive Value of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio at Admission for Chest X-Ray Progression in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients

Objective: Previous studies focused on using the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) to monitor COVID-19 patients as an early warning signal of severe COVID-19 infection. Results showed that NLR could also be used as a prognostic factor. In the present study, the role of NLR in predicting chest X-ray (CXR) progression in hospitalized COVID-19 patients was investigated. Materials and Methods: The present study was an ambispective observational cohort study that included COVID-19 patients admitted to the isolation ward and COVID-19 intensive care unit between July and September 2021 in Buddhasothorn Hospital, Chachoengsao, Thailand. NLR and demographic findings were analyzed. Results: Medical details of 564 patients were retrospectively analyzed using 3.24 as the cut-off value of the maximum Youden index to classify a high NLR group and a low NLR group. The estimated cumulative hazard function for CXR progression in the high NLR group was statistically significant, (HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.68, p=0.031). Univariate analysis suggested that high NLR value and three or more clinical risk factors (age 60 years or older, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic kidney disease, cirrhosis, stroke, obesity, and immunocompromised) were associated with CXR progression, while multivariate analysis determined high NLR as an independent predictive marker for COVID-19 CXR progression (aOR 1.54, 95% CI 1.06 to 2.23, p=0.022). Using NLR along with pre-existing comorbidity risk factors significantly increased the predictive value for COVID-19 CXR progression (area under the ROC curve 0.565, p=0.017). Conclusion: High NLR at the time of hospitalization was identified as a simple predictor for COVID-19 CXR progression requiring close monitoring. Keywords: Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR); COVID-19; Disease progression; Predictive factor; Hospitalization

Value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio for diagnosing sarcopenia in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis and efficacy of Baduanjin exercise combined with nutritional support.

To investigate the value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) for diagnosing sarcopenia in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) and efficacy of Baduanjin exercise combined with nutritional support on MHD patients with sarcopenia. A total of 220 patients undergoing MHD in MHD centers were selected, among which 84 had occurred with sarcopenia confirmed by measurements from the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia. Data were collected for analyzing the influencing factors that lead to the onset of sarcopenia in MHD patients with the use of one-way analysis of variance and multivariate logistic regression. The role of NLR in the diagnosis of sarcopenia was explored, and its correlation with relevant diagnostic measurement performance such as grip strength, gait speed and skeletal muscle mass index was analyzed. In the end, some 74 patients with sarcopenia that qualify for further intervention and observation standards were divided into observation group (Baduanjin exercise plus nutritional support) and control group (nutritional support only), which were both intervened for 12 weeks. A total of 68 patients finished all interventions, with 33 patients in the observation group and 35 in the control group. The grip strength, gait speed, skeletal muscle mass index as well as the NLR were compared between the two groups. With the employment of multivariate logistic regression analysis, it was found that age, hemodialysis duration and NLR were risk factors for the onset of sarcopenia in MHD patients (P < 0.05). The area under ROC curve for NLR of MHD patients with sarcopenia was 0.695, and NLR was negatively correlated with a biochemical indicator-human blood albumin (P < 0.05). NLR was also negatively correlated with patient's grip strength, gait speed and skeletal muscle mass index, with the same correlation found in sarcopenia patients (all P < 0.05). After intervention, patient's grip strength and gait speed were both higher, and the NLR lower in the observation group than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The occurrence of sarcopenia in MHD patients is associated with patient's age, hemodialysis duration and NLR. Therefore, it has been concluded that NLR has certain values in the diagnosis of sarcopenia in patients undergoing MHD. Moreover, the muscular strength can be enhanced and inflammation decreased in sarcopenia patients through nutritional support and physical exercise, i.e., Bajinduan exercise.

The Prognostic Role of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) in Testicular Germ Cell Tumor (GCT)

Highlights:Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been reported by several studies for its role as a biomarker in various diseases, however, the role of NLR in testicular GCT is still unclear.The characteristics and responses of testicular GCT patients among Indonesian men show similarity to other reports worldwide.As a parameter, NLR shows promise to be used as a potential biomarker for prognosis in testicular GCT.Abstract:The global incidence of testicular cancer is 1-2% from all cancers. The attempts to maintain high therapeutic rates while decreasing the treatment-related side effects and toxicity have become the current concern. However, the reports regarding testicular germ cell tumors (GCT) in Indonesia are limited. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics of testicular GCT patients undergoing bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP) chemotherapy, as well as their chemotherapy response and side effects. We reported the data of patients with Testicular Germ Cell Tumor from January 2015 to December 2019. Several data were retrieved, including patient demographics, tumor characteristics, treatment, and prognosis outcome. A total of 67 patients with testicular germ cell tumors were included in this study. The mean age was 28.9 years old. The chemotherapy regimens used were four cycles of (BEP) in 36 patients (53.7%), followed by three cycles of BEP in 22 patients (32.8%). Patients with seminoma GCT mostly had a complete response (54.1%), whereas most patients with non-seminoma GCT had progressive disease (47.8%). The multiple logistic regression analysis showed that NLR and S staging were independently associated with the patient’s response to chemotherapy (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.22, 3.78, p &lt;0.01,OR 9.43, 95% CI 1.81, 49.14, p &lt; 0.01). The clinical characteristics and response of testicular GCT patients among Indonesian men showed similarity with the current worldwide data. The NLR could be used as a potential biomarker for prognosis.

ROC Analysis Identifies Baseline and Dynamic NLR and dNLR Cut-Offs to Predict ICI Outcome in 402 Advanced NSCLC Patients

Background: Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and derived Neutrophils-to-(Leukocytes minus neutrophils) Ratio (dNLR) have been proposed as possible biomarkers of response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). However, in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) studies, various NLR and/or dNLR cut-offs have been used, manly based on previous reports on melanoma. Methods: In this Italian multicenter retrospective study, NLR, dNLR, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, albumin, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were longitudinally assessed in patients with stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with ICI. The primary objective was to evaluate if baseline parameters predicted response to ICI, using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves. Secondary endpoint was to evaluate if dynamic changing of NLR and dNLR also predicted response. Results: Data of 402 patients were collected and analyzed. Among the baseline parameters considered, NLR and dNLR were the most appropriate biomarkers according to the ROC analyses, which also identified meaningful cut-offs (NLR = 2.46; dNLR = 1.61). Patients with low ratios reported a significantly improved outcome, in terms of overall survival (p = 0.0003 for NLR; p = 0.0002 for dNLR) and progression free survival (p = 0.0004 for NLR; p = 0.005 for dNLR). The role of NLR and dNLR as independent biomarkers of response was confirmed in the Cox regression model. When assessing NLR and dNLR dynamics from baseline to cycle 3, a decrease ≥1.04 for NLR and ≥0.41 for dNLR also predicted response. Conclusions in our cohort, we confirmed that NLR and dNLR, easily assessable on peripheral blood, can predict response at baseline and early after ICI initiation. For both baseline and dynamic assessment, we identified clinically meaningful cut-offs, using ROC curves.

The predictive role of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in post-operative arrhythmias in pediatric patients after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery

Abstract Background Postoperative arrhythmias (POA) are a common complication after cardiac surgical repairs for congenital heart disease (CHD), representing a substantial source of morbidity, mortality and prolonged total in-hospital stay, with an incidence of 7.5–48% in postoperative pediatric cardiac patients. The etiology is multifactorial, and it has been related to the direct surgical manipulation of the cardiac conduction system, to the local tissue inflammation in the myocardium adjacent to the conduction system and to the arrhythmogenic effects of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), inotropes and electrolyte disturbances. Recently, the prognostic role of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a novel inflammation marker, has been evaluated in pediatric patients after CPB surgery. Purpose To evaluate the predictive role of NLR in POA in a population of pediatric CHD patients after CPB. Methods We retrospectively collected perioperative clinical and laboratory data of 146 patients (age 8.27±10.79 years; male gender: 60.8%) consecutively admitted to the cardiac surgery intensive care unit (ICU) of our institute after elective cardiac surgery with CPB in 2018. We grouped and analyzed our population over NLR tertiles evaluated at 24 hours from CPB and types of POA: supraventricular (SVT) and junctional (JET). The prognostic value of NLR and its association with POA was analyzed. Results Diagnoses of 146 patients included atrial septal defect (n=36), ventricular septal defect (n=20), pulmonary atresia/stenosis (n=10), tetralogy of Fallot (n=20), endocardial cushion defect (n=8), left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (n=14), anomalous origin of coronary artery (n=6), complex CHD (n=13), interrupted/hypoplastic aortic arch (n=12), anomalous pulmonary artery venous return (n=3). The mean CPB time was 121.6±84.6 minutes. The median ICU hospitalization was 48 hours [Q1, Q3: 24, 96]. Twelve patients experienced POA: 6 SVT and 6 JET. The frequency of POA incremented over NLR-tertiles (P-Trend 0.017), while SVT onset was associated with higher values of NLR and C-reactive protein (P=0.034 and P=0.011, respectively). Patients in the second and third tertiles of NLR had a prolonged hospitalization (Log-rank, P=0.029), especially when associated with POA (Log-rank, P=0.012). At the multivariable analysis, higher age and NLR values were independently associated with SVT [OR per year 1.22; 95% CI (1.02, 1.25), P=0.043 and OR per point 1.91; 95% CI (1.29, 2.82), P=0.012, respectively], but not with JET. Conclusions 24-h post-CPB NLR can predict postoperative SVT in a population of pediatric CHD patients. Our data suggest that the NLR could be a useful, easy-to-obtain marker for postoperative outcome in pediatric patients who had undergone elective CPB. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Evaluation of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio in pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with a higher risk of complications in pregnancy. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have been evaluated in numerous inflammatory diseases. We evaluated the possible role of these markers in SLE pregnancies. Forty-six pregnant patients with an already established diagnosis of SLE were included in the study. Complete blood counts were obtained upon admission for delivery. Seven patients were diagnosed with a flare and managed with multiple medications, whereas rest of the patients were not on any treatment or managed with monotherapy. NLR and PLR values were also evaluated between two groups and no statistically significant difference was found (p=.44 and p=.80, respectively). This study is the first to evaluate the possible role of NLR and PLR in pregnant SLE patients in the literature. Further studies are warranted for an elaborate evaluation of NLR and PLR in lupus pregnancies. Impact Statement What is already known on this subject? Pregnancy in the setting of SLE is associated with a higher risk of complications. Active disease increases the risk of adverse outcomes further. What the results of this study add? This study is the first to evaluate NLR and PLR in pregnancies complicated by SLE. No significant association between the course of the disease in pregnancy and NLR/PLR was documented. What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Further studies on the markers to predict prognosis of SLE in pregnancy are required to improve the maternal and neonatal outcomes in this exclusive group of high-risk patients.

Abstract 752: Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and subsequent cancer risk in the UK Biobank

Abstract Background: The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a ratio between neutrophil and lymphocyte counts in peripheral blood, is a measure of the balance between systemic levels of inflammation and immunity. NLR has been associated with cancer prognosis, but the role of NLR as a biomarker in carcinogenesis is not well established. Methods: We evaluated 445,443 adults in the UK Biobank, who were aged 37-73 years at baseline, had measured differential blood counts, and were cancer-free and under follow-up 1 year after baseline. NLR was categorized into quartiles. Incident cancers were ascertained from cancer registries. Multivariable Cox regression was used to estimate the per quartile hazard ratio (HR), separately for 69 cancer sites. Models were adjusted for age (quartile), sex, ethnicity (white vs non-white), total WBC (quartile), smoking (never, past, current), alcohol drinking (never, past, current), and BMI (&amp;lt;25, 25-30, ≥30 kg/m2). We present nominally significant results (p&amp;lt;0.05) and also accounting for multiple comparison using a Bonferroni cutoff (p=0.00072). Results: 26,294 incident cancers were diagnosed during a median of 3.3 years of follow-up. The mean NLR in the population was 2.3 (standard deviation 1.2). Increasing NLR quartile was associated with increased risk of cancers in esophagus, colon, lung, soft tissue including heart, uterus, and kidney, but decreased risk of myeloma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia [CLL] (ptrend&amp;lt;0.05). Compared with the lowest NLR quartile, the highest NLR quartile was significantly associated with risk of cancers of the soft tissue including heart (HR 1.98, 95%CI 1.15-3.42), kidney (1.54, 1.22-1.94), uterus (1.39, 1.11-1.73), esophagus (1.27, 0.96-1.69), colon (1.22, 1.06-1.41), myeloma (0.63, 0.47-0.86) and CLL (0.11, 0.02-0.48). After Bonferroni correction, NLR associations remained significant for kidney cancer and CLL. Conclusion: In a comprehensive analysis in a large population-based cohort, NLR was associated with subsequent risk of several cancer types. NLR may reflect the excessive inflammatory status of an individual, even in a subclinical condition, which may promote the development of cancer. On the other hand, low NLR represents a relative rise in the lymphocytes, which may be an indication of circulating premalignant cells for lymphoid malignancies. Citation Format: Minkyo Song, Eric A. Engels. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and subsequent cancer risk in the UK Biobank [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 752.

Serum neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio as a potential predictor of treatment response for immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.

e16156 Background: Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been shown to associate with tumor progression. The present study was to investigate the role of NLR on predicting the treatment response for immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) therapy in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 81 patients received ICIs for advanced HCC from January 2017 to July 2019. We analyzed whether pre- and first 3 weeks post- treatment serum NLR level was associated with ICIs outcome. Results: In this study, the pre-treatment NLR level ranged from 0.64 to 14.93 among 81 patients. The cut-off level of NLR was set as the median value of 2.79. The objective response rate (ORR) in the patients with NLR＜2.79 (low NLR) was 25.0%, which was significantly better than that of patients with NLR ≥2.79 (high NLR) (7.3%, P ＝0.03). Compared to patients with high NLR, patients with low NLR exhibited significantly longer median progression-free survival (PFS) (3.7 vs 3.0 months, P ＝0.004) and median overall survival (OS) (10.3 vs 7.5 months, P ＝0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed high NLR was an independent unfavourable prognostic factor for PFS (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.857, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.093-3.154; P = 0.022) and OS (HR = 2.267, 95% CI = 1.221-4.207; P = 0.009). For the patients with high pre-treatment NLR level, ICIs outcome was stratified more clearly by first 3 weeks post- treatment NLR level. Conclusions: The pre- and first 3 weeks post- treatment serum NLR level could be considered as a predictive factor of treatment response for ICIs in patients with advanced HCC.

An Abnormally High Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Is Not an Independent Outcome Predictor in AQP4-IgG-Positive NMOSD.

BackgroundThe neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been investigated in many autoimmune conditions as a biomarker of inflammation and/or disease activity. The role of NLR in AQP4-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) is far from clear. In this study, NLR was evaluated in patients with AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD at disease onset and its prognostic impact was subsequently assessed.MethodsIn this multicenter study, we retrospectively included all recent/newly diagnosed treatment-naïve patients with AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD (n=90) from three different countries in Latin America (LATAM): Argentina, Ecuador, and Mexico. NLR was compared between AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD and healthy controls (HC, n = 365). Demographic, clinical, paraclinical (including imaging), and prognostic data at 12 and 24 months were also evaluated. Multivariate regression analysis was used to describe and identify independent associations between the log-transformed NLR and clinical (relapses and EDSS) and imaging (new/enlarging and/or contrast-enhancing MRI lesions) outcomes.ResultsNLR was higher in NMOSD patients during the first attack compared with HC (2.9 ± 1.6 vs 1.8 ± 0.6; p<0.0001). Regardless of immunosuppressant’s initiation at disease onset, NLR remained higher in NMOSD patients at 12 (2.8 ± 1.3; p<0.0001) and 24 (3.1 ± 1.6; p<0.0001) months. No association was found at 12 and 24 months between the log-transformed NLR and the presence of relapses, new/enlarging and/or contrast-enhancing MRI lesions, and/or physical disability.ConclusionsIn this cohort of LATAM patients with AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD, NLR was abnormally high in attacks but also during follow-up. However, a high NLR was not an independent predictor of clinical or imaging outcomes in our models.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as a prognostic indicator of treatment response to novel hormones in metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer: Real-world data from a single institution.

52 Background: Prostate cancer is the most common solid malignancy in men. Despite advances in radical management, a proportion of patients develop castrate resistant metastatic disease (mCRPC). Management options in mCRPC include the novel hormones Enzalutamide (E) or Abiraterone Acetate (AA). There is limited knowledge of clinical factors suggesting improved response to either E or AA to guide clinician choice. Systemic inflammation caused by tumor activity may predict response to E or AA. The NLR is a marker of systemic inflammation which has been assessed previously. We present findings from a single institution evaluation of NLR for E and AA. Methods: Men receiving E or AA for mCRPC between March 2018 - February 2020 at our institution were identified. Baseline characteristics and pre-specified metrics including hematology, age and disease burden as well as time on treatment and survival data were retrospectively taken from hospital systems and collated into a single dataset. Time on treatment was used as a surrogate for progression free survival (PFS). Patients could switch therapies if they developed dose limiting toxicity within 3 months of treatment as per UK guidelines. AUROC curve analysis was applied to determine NLR cut off for E and AA cohorts specific for PFS. Results: 128 patients are included in the final analysis; 65 patients received E, 63 AA. Cohorts were well balanced with a median age at initial treatment of 75 (range 46-102) for AA and 74 (range 48-91) for E. The median Gleason score for AA was 8 and 9 for E. Patients receiving AA were more likely to have greater than 3 bone metastases (85% vs 74%). Patients receiving E were more likely to have visceral disease, 13% vs 10%. NLR cutoff, determined by AUROC curve analysis was 3.09 for E with an AUC of 0.782 (p &lt;0.001). For AA, NLR cutoff was 3.1 with a non-statistically significant AUC of 0.588 (p=0.704). Median PFS was 239 days (range 13-1997) for E, 175 days (range 22-2037) for AA. Conclusions: The data does not support the hypothesis that NLR can be used to determine between the therapeutic option of E or AA in individual patients. Regardless of NLR, both E and AA remain good therapeutic options for men with mCRPC. This single institution real world data provides evidence of the role of NLR in determining response to novel hormone agents in the mCRPC setting for patients commencing E. No statistically significant NLR could be calculated for patients receiving AA. Although well balanced, in this non-randomized population, patients with multiple bony metastases were more likely to receive AA and those with visceral metastases, E. It is possible that this imbalance explains the lack of statistical significance in the AA cohort. We aim to expand our study cohort and evaluate OS and other potential metrics including the effects of tumor heterogeneity on the prognostic value of NLR.

Pediatric traumatic brain injury: a new relation between outcome and neutrophil-to-lymphocite ratio.

Leading causes of death in industrialized countries are traumatic injuries and acquired disability, and entry to the emergency department in childhood. TBI (traumatic brain injury) may involve the onset of both primary lesions and a complex immune response (sterile immune reaction to brain injury), which, in addition to neuro-protective effects, can mediate secondary neurological injury. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), as a circulating inflammatory marker, has been related to outcomes in adult patients with non-neurologic diseases (such as gut tumours) or neurologic diseases (such as stroke or brain tumours), and to the prognosis of traumatic brain injury in adolescents and adults. However, the potential role of NLR in predicting outcomes in paediatric head trauma is not clearly defined. The aim of this retrospective observational study is to evaluate the association between clinical features predictive of intracranial and extracranial lesions in TBI and NLR and to establish whether an elevation of NLR is indirectly associated with adverse outcomes in pediatric patients with TBI. We analysed a sample of 219 pediatric patients, between 2-18 years old, after a TBI, and evaluated if differences in NLR were associated with neurological signs or positive CT in pediatric patients. We then compared the NLR values between healthy subjects and patients with TBI. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio – A novel prognostic marker following spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage

BackgroundInflammation plays a role in secondary brain injury after intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH). Peripheral biomarkers of inflammation especially the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) have been shown to influence outcome following ischemic stroke and traumatic brain injury. Role of NLR in outcome prognostication following haemorrhagic stroke has not yet been conclusively established. This study analyses the prognostic significance of admission neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio on mortality and 90-day outcome in patients admitted with acute SICH. Material and methodsA total of 851 patients with spontaneous ICH were retrospectively investigated. Admission haematological parameters were retrieved from our hospital laboratory systems and NLR was then calculated using the formula ANC/ALC. (Absolute neutrophil count/Absolute lymphocyte count) Clinical outcome was assessed by modified Rankin Scale at 90 days. Logistic regression was performed to identify independent risk factors of mortality and 90-day outcome. Receiver operator curve (ROC) test was used to determine the predictive value of NLR for 30-day death. ResultsA total of 851 patients enrolled in the study. Our 30 day and 90 day mortality were 125 (17.7 %) and 244 (28.7 %) respectively. The mean NLR in the entire cohort was 9.03 ± 7.6. NLR was significantly higher in the mortality group compared to the survivors (11.98 ± 9.91 vs 8.52 ± 7.05) P < 0.001. NLR in patients with a good outcome at 90 days (7.21 ± 6.06) was a lower in comparison to patients with poor outcome(10.66 ± 8.48).(p=<0.001). NLR was dichotomised at 8.2 which was computed based on ROC curve. Mortality and poor outcome were higher in the NLR > 8.2 group at 140 (40.1 %) and 23 (67.8 %) respectively (p < 0.001). Age, GCS < 8, Volume of Hematoma, Intra ventricular extension of hematoma and NLR > 8.2 were found to be independent predictors of outcome. GCS < 8 had a greater predictive value (5.236) compared to NLR.8.2 (1.78). ConclusionElevated levels of admission NLR were independently related to poor mortality and 90-day outcome after ICH. NLR is a novel, easily available and cost effective prognostic biomarker following ICH.

ROC Analysis Identifies Baseline and Dynamic NLR and dNLR Cut-Offs to Predict ICI Outcome in 402 Advanced NSCLC Patients

Background: Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and derived Neutrophils-to-(Leukocytes minus neutrophils) Ratio (dNLR) have been proposed as possible biomarkers of response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). However, in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) studies, various NLR and/or dNLR cut-offs have been used, manly based on previous reports on melanoma. Methods: In this Italian multicenter retrospective study, NLR, dNLR, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, albumin, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were longitudinally assessed in patients with stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with ICI. The primary objective was to evaluate if baseline parameters predicted response to ICI, using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves. Secondary endpoint was to evaluate if dynamic changing of NLR and dNLR also predicted response. Results: Data of 402 patients were collected and analyzed. Among the baseline parameters considered, NLR and dNLR were the most appropriate biomarkers according to the ROC analyses, which also identified meaningful cut-offs (NLR = 2.46; dNLR = 1.61). Patients with low ratios reported a significantly improved outcome, in terms of overall survival (p = 0.0003 for NLR; p = 0.0002 for dNLR) and progression free survival (p = 0.0004 for NLR; p = 0.005 for dNLR). The role of NLR and dNLR as independent biomarkers of response was confirmed in the Cox regression model. When assessing NLR and dNLR dynamics from baseline to cycle 3, a decrease ≥1.04 for NLR and ≥0.41 for dNLR also predicted response. Conclusions in our cohort, we confirmed that NLR and dNLR, easily assessable on peripheral blood, can predict response at baseline and early after ICI initiation. For both baseline and dynamic assessment, we identified clinically meaningful cut-offs, using ROC curves.

The predictive value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT Introduction There was inconsistent results regarding the associations of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with the progression and prognosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Areas Covered This paper assess the role of NLR on the progression and prognosis of COPD using a meta-analytic approach. PubMed, EmBase, and the Cochrane library were systematically searched. The pooled weighted mean differences and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were applied for continuous and categorical variables using the random-effects model. Expect Commenatry NLR was significantly high when comparing COPD patients to healthy individuals, and acute exacerbation COPD to stable COPD. Moreover, elevated NLR were significantly associated with higher risk of mortality and exacerbation.

Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and breast cancer risk: analysis by subtype and potential interactions

Multiple studies have found the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) to be associated with adverse breast cancer (BC) prognosis and survival. Very limited data exist on the role of NLR and risk of BC. The BREOGAN study is a population-based case–control study conducted in Galicia, Spain. We examined the WBC- and NLR-BC relationships. The risk of BC increased with increasing levels of neutrophils percentage (NE%) (multivariable OR for the highest category (95% CI) = 2.14 (1.39–3.32), P-trend < 0.001) and of the NLR (multivariable OR for the highest category (95% CI) = 1.93 (1.26–2.97), P-trend < 0.001). Lymphocytes absolute (L#) and percentage (L%) were associated with a decreased risk of BC (multivariable OR for the highest category (95% CI) = 0.54 (0.35–0.83), and 0.51 (0.33–0.79), P-trend = 0.001 and < 0.001, respectively). The NLR-BC association was more pronounced among Luminal A BC (multivariable OR for the highest category (95% CI) = 2.00 (1.17–3.45), P-trend < 0.001), HER2-negative BC (multivariable OR for the highest category (95% CI) = 1.87 (1.16–3.02), P-trend < 0.001), and those with high total cholesterol and low H2O2 levels.