The Role of Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and Platelet to Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) in Assessing Outcomes of AECOPD and Their Correlation with Inflammatory Markers (Code-T0068)

Introduction: Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (AECOPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Inflammatory markers play a crucial role in its pathogenesis and progression. Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and Platelet to Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) are emerging as potential markers of systemic inflammation in AECOPD, offering insights into disease severity and prognosis.

Aims and Objective:

Aims:

• To study the role of NLR, PLR in assessment and outcome of COPD exacerbation.
• To study the correlation of NLR, PLR with inflammatory biomarkers

Objectives:

• To study the demographics of patients presenting with AECOPD.
• To study the role of NLR, PLR in comorbidities, severity and prognosis of COPD
• To study correlation of inflammatory biomarkers with COPD exacerbation.
• To study the correlation of NLR, PLR with CRP and Serum Ferritin in AECOPD

Methods: This prospective observational study included 120 patients with AECOPD. Blood samples were collected to measure NLR, PLR, and inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and white blood cell count (WBC). The clinical outcomes were tracked, including hospitalization duration, respiratory function improvement, and mortality.

Results: Both NLR and PLR were significantly higher in patients with severe AECOPD compared to those with mild exacerbations. A positive correlation was found between NLR, PLR, and conventional inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR, WBC). Higher NLR and PLR were associated with prolonged hospitalization and worse clinical outcomes.

Conclusion: NLR and PLR are reliable, easily accessible biomarkers that correlate with inflammatory markers and can aid in the assessment of AECOPD severity and outcomes. These ratios may serve as prognostic tools in clinical practice.

Keywords: AECOPD, NLR, PLR, Inflammatory Markers, Prognosis, Systemic Inflammation