A Review of the Prognostic Significance of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Nonhematologic Malignancies

Defne Cigdem Koc ¹, Ion Bogdan Mănescu ^1,2, Măriuca Mănescu ³

⁰Medical Campus Hamburg, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures, 11-15 Albert-Einstein-Ring, 22761 Hamburg, Germany.

Diagnostics (basel, Switzerland) +

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September 28, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a reliable prognostic biomarker for various cancers. This review synthesizes recent data, confirming its value in predicting clinical outcomes across multiple nonhematologic malignancies.

Area Of Science

Oncology
Hematology
Biomarker Research

Background

Biomarkers are essential for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring.
The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a readily accessible prognostic marker derived from routine blood counts.
Periodic updates are needed to reflect the growing body of research on cancer biomarkers.

Purpose Of The Study

To review and synthesize recent literature (2018-2024) on the prognostic role of NLR in nonhematologic malignancies.
To assess the reliability of NLR as a predictor of clinical outcomes.
To discuss the characteristics, limitations, and exceptions of NLR use in oncology.

Main Methods

Systematic literature search of the PubMed database.
Analysis and synthesis of 88 studies including 28,050 subjects.
Categorization of findings by cancer type: gastrointestinal, urinary/reproductive, lung, and breast cancers.

Main Results

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is confirmed as a reliable prognostic indicator in nonhematologic malignancies.
Evidence supports NLR's utility across diverse cancer types, including gastrointestinal, urinary tract, lung, and breast cancers.
Specific characteristics and limitations of NLR as a prognostic tool were identified.

Conclusions

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) remains a valuable and accessible prognostic biomarker in oncology.
Understanding NLR's specific applications and limitations is crucial for its effective clinical use.
Further research and periodic reviews are important for refining the application of NLR in cancer management.

Keywords:

NLR cancer clinical outcome neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio nonhematologic malignancy prognosis