Neutrophil/lymphocyte and platelet/lymphocyte ratios are associated with disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between Neutrophil to Lymphocyte (NLR) and Platelet to Lymphocyte (PLR) ratios in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Disease Activity Score-28 (DAS28) and Rheumatoid Arthritis Quality of Life (RAQoL). Material and Method: One hundred twentyfive RA patients and 105 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Patients were assessed and PLR, NLR, and DAS28, RAQoL values were calculated. Disease activity was calculated by DAS28 and quality of life was examined by RAQoL, HAQ (Health Assessment Questionnaire). Results: NLR (2,4 ± 1,9) and PLR (155,2 ± 82,3) value was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in RA. Positive correlation was observed between the two groups between DAS 28 with age, morning stiffness, VAS pain assessment, RF, ESR, CRP,NLR , PLR and swollen and tender joint number (p < 0.05) Significant negative correlation was observed between DAS 28 and hemoglobin, RBC, lymphocyte, monocyte % value (p < 0.05). There was no significant correlation between DAS28 and RAQoL, HAQ (p>0,05). Discussion: This study presents that NLR and PLR are associated with disease activity in patients with RA. NLR and PLR values can be assessed as an additional inflammatory marker in patients with RA.