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Updated: Jun 14, 2026
High-throughput Detection Method for Influenza Virus
Published on: February 4, 2012
Lymphocyte to monocyte ratio as a screening tool for influenza
George Merekoulias1, Evangelos C Alexopoulos, Theodore Belezos
1University of Patras, Public health department; University of patras, Public health department; ED Olympion Hospital; University of Patras and Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Patras.
Insights
A complete blood count (CBC) finding of low lymphocytes and/or high monocytes may help identify H1N1 influenza. A lymphocyte to monocyte ratio below 2 is proposed as a screening tool.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Medicine
- Hematology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Increased patient visits for influenza-like illness were observed in fall 2009.
- A specific pattern was noted in complete blood counts (CBC) of patients with probable influenza.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of CBC patterns as early indicators of H1N1 virus infection.
- To evaluate the utility of relative lymphopenia and/or monocytosis as a diagnostic marker.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of complete blood counts (CBC) from patients presenting with influenza-like illness.
- Observation of specific hematological parameters, including lymphocyte and monocyte counts.
Main Results:
- Lymphopenia and/or monocytosis were present in 90% of patients with probable influenza.
- Relative lymphopenia with or without monocytosis was identified as a potential laboratory marker for H1N1 infection.
Conclusions:
- The lymphocyte to monocyte ratio below 2 is proposed as a screening tool for influenza infection.
- This CBC pattern may aid in the early identification and treatment of patients with novel influenza A.
Abstract:
In fall 2009 the emergency department of a clinic in Greece with increased patient visits due to influenza-like illness observed a particular pattern in the complete blood count (CBC) of these patients. In 90% of all patients with probable influenza, lymphopenia and/or monocytosis were present. Relative lymphopenia with or without monocytosis appears to be a laboratory marker for H1N1 virus infection, a finding that could play a major role in early identifying and treating patients with new influenza A. A ratio of lymphocytes to monocytes below 2 is proposed as a screening tool for influenza infection instead of rapid tests.
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