Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio and Platelet Indices Value as Predictive Markers of Anaemia of Chronic Diseases and Inflammation

Abstract

Background: Anaemia of chronic diseases (ACD) is a prevalent condition among patients with chronic illnesses. Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet indices (PI) have been suggested as potential biomarkers for ACD. This study aimed to assess the predictive value of NLR and PI in patients with chronic diseases attending hospitals in South-Western Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted among 87 participants, including individuals diagnosed with HIV, HBV, chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes mellitus (DM), and a control group. Blood samples were collected, and NLR and PI were measured using an automated blood counter (Sysmex KX-21N). Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and unpaired t-tests, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results: The mean NLR values showed no statistically significant difference between anaemic and non-anaemic subjects (p > 0.05). ROC analysis indicated limited discriminatory power for NLR (AUC = 0.577) and PLR (AUC = 0.536) as diagnostic tools for anaemia. Platelet indices, including PLT, MPV, PDW, and P-LCR, also revealed no significant differences between study groups.

Conclusion: The study found that NLR and PI have limited utility as predictive markers for ACD. Further studies are recommended to explore alternative biomarkers and refine diagnostic tools for ACD in chronic disease patients.