Albumin-to-neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio: a novel dual-pathway biomarker for diabetic retinopathy risk assessment

ANLR demonstrates a significant inverse association with DR risk and severity in diabetic patients, exhibiting a nonlinear dose-response relationship validated across independent populations. As an easily obtainable biomarker integrating inflammatory and nutritional status, ANLR may serve as a valuable tool for DR risk stratification and early identification of high-risk patients, potentially guiding personalized prevention strategies.