The platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) is a marker of inflammation.
Basis: Reactive thrombocytosis may occur with tumors. Lymphocytopenia is associated with immune defects.
Parameters:
(1) platelet count
(2) absolute lymphocyte count
platelet to lymphocyte ratio =
= (platelet count) / (absolute lymphocyte count)
Interpretation:
• An elevated PLR is associated with worse prognosis for several malignancies, with cutoffs ranging from 150 to 300.
• A PLR >= 140 is associated with increased inflammation in end-stage renal disease.
• A PLR >= 150 is associated with IVIG resistance in Kawasaki disease.
Performance:
• Chemotherapy and infection can affect both platelet and lymphocyte counts.
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Specialty: Immunology/Rheumatology, Clinical Laboratory