Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as a predictor of inflammatory markers for diabetic nephropathy (DN) in type 2 diabetic patients.
Methodology: This descriptive observational study was conducted at medicine department of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad from 1st March 2021 to 1st Jan 2022). The non-probability convenience method of sampling was used for selecting patients aged 18 to 70 years belonging to both genders. HbA1C levels and microalbuminuria along with a CBC and RFTs were performed from the hospital laboratory. Microalbuminuria and N/L ratio were determined.
Results: Out of 200 subjects, 92 were found to be diagnosed with DN and 108 had normal renal function. T-test indicated the statistical relevance of NLR to DN subjects, however, there was no intergroup difference in individual TLC count. On the other hand, inter-group statistical relevance was observed in absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and absolute lymphocyte count (ALC).
Conclusion: For its early detection of DN, NLR a predictor of inflammatory markers can serve as an important biomarker.

Key words: Glomerular filtration rate, diabetic kidney disease, neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte ratio, total lymphocyte count.