Assessment of Prognostic Value of Lactate/Albumin Ratio in Sepsis

Abstract Background: Sepsis is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in intensive care units (ICUs) worldwide. Despite advances in medical care, the burden of sepsis remains significant, with high incidence and mortality rates reported globally and in India. Identification and prognostication of sepsis at an early stage is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Objectives: This study aims to assess the prognostic value of the lactate-to-albumin ratio (LAR) in patients with sepsis. Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted over one year (2022-2023) involving 100 patients admitted with sepsis to the ICU of Gandhi Medical College and Hamidia Hospital, Bhopal. Serum lactate levels and serum albumin levels were recorded. The lactate-to-albumin ratio was calculated for each patient. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 20. ROC curve analysis was used to evaluate the optimal cut-off value for the lactate-to-albumin ratio in predicting in-hospital mortality. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The results demonstrated a significant correlation between high lactate-to-albumin ratio and adverse sepsis outcomes. Patients with higher lactate-to-albumin ratio values had increased in-hospital mortality rates and longer ICU stays. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the lactate-to-albumin ratio is a robust prognostic marker that can aid in early risk stratification of sepsis patients, potentially guiding therapeutic decisions and improving clinical outcomes ultimately reducing its associated morbidity and mortality.