Use of the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio to Evaluate a Patient with Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)

Alkhouri et al used the ratio of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte count to evaluate a patient with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). This is an inexpensive test that can be used to screen or to monitor patients. The authors are from the Cleveland Clinic.

 

Parameters:

(1) neutrophil count

(2) lymphocyte count

 

ratio =

= (neutrophil count) / (lympocyte count)

Ratio	Significance
< 1.9	significant NASH unlikely
1.9 to 2.3	significant NASH without significant fibrosis
> 2.3	fibrosis stage 3 or 4 likely

 

Limitations:

• Other conditions affecting the bone marrow, neutrophil count or lymphocyte count would affect the ratio. Ideally the patient should be stable with no other active condition.