Study of Neutrophil-To-Lymphocyte Ratio and its Correlation with Glycemic Status in Diabetic Senile Cataract Patients

Abstract

Background Systemic inflammation is associated with cataractogenesis in diabetes remains controversial. Recently, Neutrophil –to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) is used as a reliable biomarker for inflammation in various diseases. However, the NLR also act as risk factor in the pathogenesis of diabetic senile cataract is still unknown.

Objectives The objective of the current study is to investigate NLR and other hematological parameter levels and to find out any association with diabetic senile cataract compared to normal healthy individuals without cataract.

Subjects and methods This case-control study consists of 100 type 2 DM patient with senile cataract (cases) and 100 normal healthy individuals without cataract (control) in the age group from 40 to 75 years of both genders. Complete blood count indices were estimated by autoanalyzer and NLR was calculated by dividing the neutrophil count by lymphocyte count.

Results The present study shows significantly increased NLR and Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) levels and decreased level of Absolute Lymphocyte Count (ALC) in diabetic senile cataracts when compared to normal healthy individuals without cataract. A significant positive correlation of HbA1c with NLR and ANC were observed. Multiple linear regression analysis showed significantly positive influence of NLR with respect to HbA1c.

Conclusion NLR levels are increased in diabetic senile cataracts which indicate that systemic inflammation also plays an important role in the early development of cataract formation and act as risk factor of diabetic senile cataract.