A study of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in patients with metabolic syndrome

Abstract

Background and Aim of the Study: Numerous studies have shown an association of metabolic syndrome (MS) and insulin resistance with inflammation. The prevalence of MS as defined by the National Cholesterol Education Programme, Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP, ATP), and other criteria indicates ranges from 11% to 41% in India. Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, which is calculated from a routine complete blood count with differential, is an easily obtained, inexpensive, can be used as a widely available marker of inflammation. This ratio can also aid in the risk stratification of patients with various cardiovascular diseases in addition to the traditionally used markers. Materials and Methodology: In this cross-sectional study, 210 patients with and without MS were included after detailed history and examination. Patients were considered as cases based on the NCEP, ATP III criteria for MS. Both groups of patients were subjected to routine investigations which included complete blood counts, total white blood counts, neutrophil and lymphocyte levels, HbA1c levels, serum glucose levels, fasting lipid profile, and electrocardiography. Logistic regression analysis was done to look for the association of neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio with MS.P< 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: It was seen that the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio in participants without MS was found to be 1.57 ± 0.728 and the ratio in participants with MS fulfilling 3 out of the 5 criteria, 4 out of 5 and 5 out of 5 criteria were, respectively, 2.65 ± 1.003, 3.59 ± 1.258, and 4.79 ± 2.143. This association was statistically significant with aP= 0.00. Conclusion: Participants with MS had increased neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio when compared to participants without MS. Participants fulfilling higher criteria of MS had higher neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio suggesting increasing inflammatory state.