The role of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and platelet to lymphocyte ratio in determining the severity of pre-eclampsia in antenatal women: A case control study

Pre-eclampsia (PE) remains a significant global health concern, affecting 2-8% of pregnancies and contributing to maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Characterized by hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation, PE often involves systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. Its exact etiology is multifactorial, involving immune dysregulation and vascular abnormalities. Early identification of high-risk pregnant women is crucial to mitigate adverse outcomes. In India, PE affects 8-10% of pregnancies. Inflammatory markers such as the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) have emerged as potential indicators of systemic inflammation. Elevated NLR and PLR levels in PE suggest a role in the disorder's pathophysiology, reflecting immune responses to placental ischemia and pro-inflammatory cytokine release. This study aims to compare NLR and PLR levels between PE patients and normotensive pregnant women, evaluate their association with PE severity, and discuss their potential as predictive biomarkers. A case-control study was conducted with 84 participants, following eligibility criteria via convenient sampling. Demographic characteristics, obstetric history, and CBC-derived biomarkers were assessed. Among 84 pregnant women, 42 had preeclampsia (PE) and 42 were normotensive. The PE group had significantly higher Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratios (5.11 ± 2.88 vs. 2.74 ± 0.78) and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratios (108 ± 46.7 vs. 85.4 ± 29.4) compared to controls. PE incidence peaked between 34-38 weeks. Higher PLR and NLR values were linked to severe PE. ANC booking was lower in the PE group. Obesity trends were not statistically significant.Significant associations were found between elevated NLR and PLR and PE severity, highlighting their potential clinical utility. Our findings indicate NLR and PLR as valuable biomarkers for predicting and managing PE. Integration of these markers into routine prenatal care could enhance clinical management and improve maternal and fetal outcomes.