Neutrophils as indicators of obesity-associated inflammation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the suitability of routine blood neutrophil values as indicators of obesity-associated inflammation.

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we assess absolute neutrophil counts (ANCs) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) values in subjects with and without obesity and analyze the weight of both parameters on the disease. Additionally, correlation studies between ANC and NLR with BMI, a parameter internationally accepted to define obesity are performed.

Quantitative data from 12 (ANC) and 11 (NLR) studies were included, with a total of 4475 participants. The meta-analysis shows that while both parameters are increased in the obesity group, ANC values present higher differences with the control and less heterogeneity among studies. Additionally, unlike NLR, ANC demonstrates a positive and significant correlation with BMI.

Overall, this meta-analysis demonstrates that ANC is a more reliable and stable parameter than NLR for the assessment of obesity-related inflammation, which offers clinicians a novel tool to assist in preventing complications related to obesity.