Elevated Neutrophil Lymphocyte Ratio as a Prognostic Biomarker for Stroke: A Review

Abstract

Stroke remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with inflammation playing a crucial role in its pathophysiology and prognosis. The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a readily available and cost-effective biomarker, has emerged as a potential predictor of short-term mortality in stroke patients. This review explores the role of NLR in stroke, its underlying mechanisms, its prognostic significance, and its potential application in clinical practice.

Moreover, NLR has been shown to predict functional impairment at 90 days post-stroke. This biomarker’s simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and easy accessibility make it an attractive tool for early risk stratification in stroke patients. However, variability in NLR cutoff values and the influence of confounding factors highlight the need for further research. Standardized NLR thresholds and prospective studies are essential to establish its utility in clinical decision-making. This review also explores the potential for therapeutic interventions aimed at modulating NLR as a means to improve stroke outcomes