NEUTROPHIL–LYMPHOCYTE INDEX: AN INDISPENSABLE PREMATURE INDICATOR FOR PRECOCIOUSDIAGNOSIS OF DIABETIC KIDNEY DISEASE

Abstract

Overview :Chronic Hyperglycemia manifests in various forms of complications based on the duration and severity. One of the trivial forms include Diabetic nephropathy (DN), also known as diabetic kidney disease. Premature identification of DN is quintessential for formulation of revitalizing strategies and keeping the disease momentum at bay. DN is not easily identifiable based on the signs and symptoms and kidney function tests. Over the years, neutrophil–lymphocyte index (NLR) hasunfolded as a verytrivial indicator. This study aims to evaluate the relevance of neutrophil–lymphocyte Index (NLR) as a precocious indicator for early-stage DN.

Study Protocol: Thisinstitutional patient study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital from Jan 2024 to Jan 2025 A total of 110 (n-110) diabetic patientsaged20–80 years were enrolled. Participants were stratified into two groups Group 1: Diabetic patients without nephropathy and Group 2: Diabetic patients with early-stage nephropathy

Results:Patients with diabetic nephropathy (Group 2) had higher NLR, HbA1c, serum creatinine, and UACR levels, along with lower eGFR compared to those without nephropathy (Group 1). Multivariate analysis confirmed that higher NLR and HbA1c, along with lower eGFR, are independent predictors of worsening kidney function linked to increased inflammation and renal impairment.

Conclusion:NLR and PLR are effective inflammatory markers in DKD, correlating with lower eGFR, increased albuminuria, and adverse biochemical profiles. They serve as independent predictors for early detection and disease progression. Further research is indicated.