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. 2023 Sep;33(5):821-830.
doi: 10.4314/ejhs.v33i5.12.

Neutrophil-Lymphocyte, Platelet-Neutrophil, and Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratios as Indicators of Sickle Cell Anaemia Severity

Chilota Chibuife Efobi  1 , Chisom Adaobi Nri-Ezedi  2 , Chika Sandra Madu  3 , Chuka Charles Ikediashi  4 , Obiora Ejiofor  5 , Chika Ifeoma Ofiaeli  6
Affiliations

Neutrophil-Lymphocyte, Platelet-Neutrophil, and Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratios as Indicators of Sickle Cell Anaemia Severity

Chilota Chibuife Efobi et al. Ethiop J Health Sci. 2023 Sep.

Abstract

Background: Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) imposes a substantial healthcare burden, affecting millions of people worldwide. Understanding the determinants influencing SCA severity is crucial for enhanced disease management and optimized patient outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), Platelet-Neutrophil Ratio (PNR), Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR), and SCA severity.

Methods: A cohort of 45 children diagnosed with SCA and undergoing treatment at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Awka, was included in this study. Demographic and clinical data, along with laboratory measurements of the aforementioned ratios, were collected. The severity of SCA was assessed using numerical scoring.

Results: The analysis revealed that PNR and PLR emerged as significant predictors of SCA severity, irrespective of the level of adiposity. In contrast, NLR demonstrated no predictive value in relation to SCA severity.

Conclusion: The findings challenge the conventional notion that neutrophils alone play a central role in the pathogenesis of sickle cell crises. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of the disease and provide insights into possible alternative mechanisms underlying SCA severity. Further research is warranted to explore the intricate interplay between platelets, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and other biological factors within the context of SCA. Ultimately, this knowledge may pave the way for targeted interventions and improved management strategies for individuals living with SCA.

Keywords: Adiposity; Disease severity; Inflammatory markers; Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio; Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratio; Platelet-Neutrophil Ratio; Sickle Cell Anaemia.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Bar plots of eEstimated medians and standard errors between (a) neutrophil-lymphoctye ratio (b) platelet-neutrophil ratio and (c) platelet-lymphocyte ratio and SCA severity
Figure 2
Figure 2
Bar plots of estimated medians and standard errors between (a) neutrophil-lymphoctye ratio (b) platelet-neutrophil ratio and (c) platelet-lymphocyte ratio and weight distribution stratified by SCA severity
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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