Association of peripheral neutrophilia with adverse angiographic outcomes in ST-elevation myocardial infarction

Impact of White Blood Cell Count After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention on Long-Term Prognosis in Patients with Unstable Angina Pectoris: A Single-Center Retrospective Observational Cohort Study

Objective

An association between white blood cell count (WBC-C) before percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and prognosis has been established in patients undergoing PCI. However, the effect of WBC-C after PCI on the long-term prognosis of patients with unstable angina pectoris (UA) is unclear.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in 1811 consecutive patients with UA. The changes of WBC and subgroup counts before and in the early postoperative stages after PCI were observed by paired Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The Kaplan-Meier method and COX proportional regression model were used to evaluate the association between the incidence of 5-year endpoint events and post-PCI leukocytosis.

Results

Leukocytosis and neutrocytosis within 24 hours after PCI were observed in majority of patients with UA, while lymphocyte count significantly decreased after PCI in those patients. There were no significant differences in 5-year all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) between patients in the post-PCI leukocytosis and the control group. However, the 5-year incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) was significantly increased in the post-PCI leukocytosis group (p = 0.017, Log rank test). Leukocytosis after PCI was independently associated with the occurrence of MACE (hazard ratio: 1.36; 95% confidence interval: 1.06-1.75; p = 0.015).

Conclusion

Peripheral WBC and neutrophil counts within 24 hours after PCI significantly increased in response to PCI in patients with UA, while lymphocyte count significantly decreased after PCI in those patients. The post-PCI leukocytosis offered predictive value for an increased risk of MACE for up to 5 years in patients with UA.

Prognostic potential of inflammatory markers in chronic kidney disease patients combined with acute myocardial infarction

Background

Inflammation significantly impacts chronic kidney disease (CKD) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This study investigates the prognostic value of inflammatory markers in predicting outcomes for CKD patients with AMI.

Methods

We enrolled patients diagnosed with CKD concomitant with AMI, choosing five inflammatory markers related to both diseases. Patients were categorized into elevated inflammatory markers group and control group based on inflammatory markers cut-off values for predicting in-hospital major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE). Using univariate and multivariate logistic regression, we identified inflammation-related risk factors for MACCE. We adjusted covariates stepwise to explore the relationship between independent risk factors and adverse outcomes. We also evaluated the predictive value of these markers for MACCE by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, higher levels of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) significantly increased risk of MACCE (all P < 0.05). After adjusting above two indicators, NLR was independently associated with in-hospital MACCE in CKD patients with AMI (OR = 10.764, 95% CI: 1.887-61.406, P = 0.007). Furthermore, compared to other inflammatory markers, NLR had the highest predictive value for MACCE in patients with AMI and CKD [Area Under the Curve (AUC): 0.748, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.634-0.861, P < 0.001].

Conclusion

In CKD patients combined with AMI, elevated levels of inflammation markers could increase the risk of MACCE. NLR may provide superior predictive value compared to other markers.

The Impact of the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio on In-Hospital Outcomes in Patients With Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Introduction The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a significant predictor of cardiovascular diseases, influencing their progression and prognosis. The exact role of the NLR in acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is unclear. We investigated the possible association between peak NLR values within the first three days after STEMI onset and in-hospital outcomes in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods This retrospective study included 641 patients who were diagnosed with acute STEMI and treated with primary PCI for 18 months at Dr. Siyami Ersek Hospital. The NLR was calculated using the maximum values obtained during the first three days after admission. The patients were divided into quartiles according to their NLR values for further analysis of potential complications during and after hospitalization, up to a follow-up period of three months. Results Significant differences were found in factors such as age, body mass index (BMI), and length of hospital stay among these groups. Specifically, we found that in-hospital mortality rates were significantly higher in the Q4 group, and there were variations in target vessel revascularization (TVR) rates, major adverse cardiac events (MACE) rates, and other clinical outcomes. Some parameters, such as reinfarction rates and certain procedural outcomes, did not show significant differences among the groups. However, despite the differences, most of the patients achieved successful outcomes after PCI, with the best results in the low NLR group and the worst results in the high NLR group. Conclusion Higher NLR values were associated with a higher risk of unfavorable outcomes during hospitalization.

Platelet distribution widths and white blood cell are associated with cardiovascular diseases: data mining approaches

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and haematologic factors in a cohort of Iranian adults.

METHOD

For a total population of 9,704 aged 35 to 65, a prospective study was designed. Haematologic factors and demographic characteristics (such as gender, age, and smoking status) were completed for all participants. The association between haematologic factors and CVDs was assessed through logistic regression (LR) analysis, decision tree (DT), and bootstrap forest (BF).

RESULTS

Almost all of the included factors were significantly associated with CVD (p<.001). Among the included factors, were: age, white blood cell (WBC), and platelet distribution width (PDW) had the strongest correlation with the development of CVD. For unit OR interpretation, WBC has been represented as the most remarkable risk factor for CVD (OR: 1.22 (CI 95% (1.18, 1.27))). Also, age is associated with an increase in the odds of CVD + occurrence (OR: 1.12 (CI 95% (1.11, 1.13))). Moreover, males are times more likely to develop CVD than females (OR: 1.39 (CI 95% (1.22, 1.58))). In DT model, age is the best classifier factor in CVD development, followed by WBC and PDW. Furthermore, based on the BF algorithm, the most crucial factors correlated with CVD are age, WBC, PDW, sex, and smoking status.

CONCLUSION

The obtained result from LR, DT, and BF models confirmed that age, WBC, and PDW are the most crucial factors for the development of CVD.

Relationship between Serial Serum Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio, Cardiovascular Mortality, and All-Cause Mortality in Chinese Peritoneal Dialysis Patients

INTRODUCTION

It is believed that the excessive cardiovascular (CV) burden of patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) is closely associated with chronic inflammation. Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is an inflammatory marker that was shown to correlate with CV outcomes. However, little is known about the significance of serial monitoring of serum NLR. We aimed to determine the prognostic value of serial NLR on all-cause mortality and CV mortality in PD patients.

METHODS

Serial measurement of NLR was obtained from 225 incident PD patients in a single center, with each measurement 1 year apart. Patients were divided into two groups ("high" vs. "low") by the median value of NLR. The primary and secondary outcome measure was all-cause and CV mortality, respectively.

RESULTS

After a median of follow-up for 43.9 months, patients with lower baseline NLR demonstrated a higher survival rate (p = 0.01). Patients with persistently high NLR values on serial measurement had the lowest survival rate (p = 0.03). Multivariate Cox regression showed that this group of patients had significantly higher all-cause mortality (HR: 1.74, 95% CI: 1.09-2.79, p = 0.02). However, the NLR failed to demonstrate a statistically significant relationship with CV mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

While baseline NLR was an independent predictor of all-cause mortality in PD patients, persistent elevation in NLR appeared to further amplify the risk. Regular monitoring of serial serum NLR may enable early identification of patients who are at risk of adverse outcome.

Standardization of Outcome Measures for Intratympanic Steroid Treatment for Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

OBJECTIVE

To identify variability in reported hearing outcomes for intratympanic (IT) steroid treatment of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) by comparing outcomes using the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) guideline with other published criteria.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

Tertiary otology practice.

PATIENTS

Patients with ISSNHL treated with IT steroid between April 2003 and December 2020.

INTERVENTIONS

IT steroid injection and audiometric evaluation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

1) Rates of full, partial, or no recovery using the AAO-HNS guideline versus other reported criteria, and 2) correlation analyses of demographic and clinical variables with response to IT steroid.

RESULTS

Using AAO-HNS reporting criteria, full recovery of the pure-tone average was noted in 25.68% of patients. Applying eight other published outcomes criteria to this patient cohort classified full recovery in 14.87 to 40.54% of patients. Similarly, AAO-HNS criteria classified "no recovery" in 51.35% of our patients, whereas applying the other reported criteria showed an average rate of 62.16% no recovery and as high as 82.43% of patients without recovery. Younger age ( p = 0.003; effect size, 0.924) and IT injection within a week of onset ( p < 0.001; effect size, 1.099) positively correlated with full recovery. There was no impact of prior or concurrent oral steroids, or number of steroid injections on outcome.

CONCLUSION

Great variability exists in the literature for assessment of IT steroid outcomes in ISSNHL. Standard reporting of outcomes as per the AAO-HNS SSNHL guideline is recommended to consistently characterize IT steroid efficacy and allow comparison across studies.

Prognostic Significance of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for First Acute Myocardial Infarction with Heart Failure: Five-Year Follow-Up Results

Objective

The study aimed to investigate the incidence and influencing factors of heart failure after 5 years of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for first acute myocardial infarction.

Methods

A total of 1235 patients, diagnosed as acute myocardial infarction and treated with PCI in Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2014, were enrolled. Based on the exclusion criteria, 671 patients were followed up to obtain echocardiographic results 5 years after the onset of myocardial infarction (from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2019). Of 671 patients, 62 were lost to follow-up. Finally, 609 patients were recruited in this study. According to the results of the echocardiographic examination, patients were divided into a heart failure group (n = 97) (LVEF < 50%) and a nonheart failure group (n = 512) (LVEF ≥ 50%). The clinical characteristics were compared between the two groups, and the influencing factors of heart failure after 5 years of PCI in patients with acute myocardial infarction were analyzed using logistic regression and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analyses.

Results

Of 609 patients, 97 had heart failure within 5 years after PCI for first myocardial infarction, with an incidence of 15.9%. Multivariate regression analysis finally examined the predictors related to the occurrence of heart failure, including age (aOR, 1.008; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.054–1.123; P ≤ 0.001), peak troponin I level (aOR, 1.020; 95% CI, 1.006–1.034; P = 0.004), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (during admission) (aOR, 0.908; 95% CI, 0.862–0.956; P ≤ 0.001), and left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (LVEDD) (at admission) (aOR, 1.136; 95% CI, 1.016–1.271; P = 0.025).

Conclusion

In this study, the incidence of heart failure (LVEF < 50%) in patients with acute myocardial infarction who underwent PCI was 15.9% at a five-year follow up. Age, peak troponin I level, and LVEDD (at admission) were risk factors for heart failure, while LVEF (at admission) of patients during hospitalization was a protective factor for heart failure.

Leukocyte subtypes, gelatinases, and their tissue inhibitors in a group of subjects with asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis

In a cohort of subjects with asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis (ACA), we have evaluated the neutrophil and lymphocyte count and their ratio (NLR), the gelatinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2). At baseline, no difference was observed between ACA subjects and subject control group regarding neutrophil and lymphocyte count while was evident in ACA subjects a significant increase in MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-2 associated to a significant decrease in TIMP-1. Dividing the ACA according to the number of cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs) we have observed an increase in lymphocyte count in the subgroup with 3-5 CRFs. Evaluating the leukocyte subtypes according to all the surrogate markers of insulin resistance has been noted, in the subgroups that exceed the medians of these markers, a significant increase in neutrophil and lymphocyte count without any variation of the NLR. Effecting the same evaluation for the MMP/TIMP pattern we observed, instead, that the same subgroups tend to show a decrease in MMP-2 and an increase in MMP-9. No difference instead for TIMP-1 and TIMP-2. The abnormality of the MMP/TIMP pattern, bearing in mind the cardiometabolic clustering present in this cohort of ACA subjects, would induce to use drugs able not only to cure the cardiometabolic risk factors but also to influence the MMP/TIMP profile.

Development of a nomogram for the prediction of in-hospital mortality in patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction after primary percutaneous coronary intervention: a multicentre, retrospective, observational study in Hebei province, China

OBJECTIVES

To establish a clinical prognostic nomogram for predicting in-hospital mortality after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) among patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

DESIGN

Retrospective, multicentre, observational study.

SETTING

Thirty-nine hospitals in Hebei province.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with STEMI who underwent PCI from January 2018 to December 2019.

INTERVENTIONS

A multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify the factors associated with in-hospital mortality, and a nomogram was established using these factors. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated by the discrimination, calibration and clinical usefulness.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

The outcome was the factors associated with in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

This study included 855 patients, among whom 223 died in hospital. Age, body mass index, systolic pressure on admission, haemoglobin, random blood glucose on admission, ejection fraction after PCI, use aspirin before admission, long lesions, thrombolysis in myocardial infarction flow grade and neutrophils/lymphocytes ratio were independently associated with in-hospital mortality (all p<0.05). In the training set, the nomogram showed a C-index of 0.947, goodness-of-fit of 0.683 and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.947 (95% CI 0.927 to 0.967). In the testing set, the C-index was 0.891, goodness-of-fit was 0.462 and AUC was 0.891 (95% CI 0.844 to 0.939). The results indicate that the nomogram had good discrimination and good prediction accuracy and could achieve a good net benefit.

CONCLUSIONS

A nomogram to predict in-hospital mortality in patients with STEMI after PCI was developed and validated in Hebei, China and showed a satisfactory performance. Prospective studies will be necessary to confirm the performance and clinical applicability and practicality of the nomogram.

Effect of interleukin-1 blockade with anakinra on leukocyte count in patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction

Leukocytosis is a common finding in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and portends a poor prognosis. Interleukin 1-β regulates leukopoiesis and pre-clinical studies suggest that anakinra (recombinant human interleukin-1 [IL-1] receptor antagonist) suppresses leukocytosis in myocardial infarction. However, the effect of IL-1 blockade with anakinra on leukocyte count in patients with STEMI is unknown. We reviewed the white blood cell (WBC) and differential count of 99 patients enrolled in a clinical trial of anakinra (n = 64) versus placebo (n = 35) for 14 days after STEMI. A complete blood cell count with differential count were obtained at admission, and after 72 h, 14 days and 3 months. After 72 h from treatment, anakinra compared to placebo led to a statistically significant greater percent reduction in total WBC count (- 35% [- 48 to - 24] vs. - 21% [- 34 to - 10], P = 0.008), absolute neutrophil count (- 48% [- 60 to - 22] vs. - 27% [- 46 to - 5], P = 0.004) and to an increase in absolute eosinophil count (+ 50% [0 to + 100] vs. 0% [- 50 to + 62], P = 0.022). These changes persisted while on treatment at 14 days and were no longer apparent at 3 months after treatment discontinuation. We found that in patients with STEMI IL-1 blockade with anakinra accelerates resolution of leukocytosis and neutrophilia. This modulation may represent one of the mechanisms by which IL-1 blockade improves clinical outcomes.

Retention of the NLRP3 Inflammasome-Primed Neutrophils in the Bone Marrow Is Essential for Myocardial Infarction-Induced Granulopoiesis

BACKGROUND

Acute myocardial infarction (MI) results in overzealous production and infiltration of neutrophils to the ischemic heart. This is mediated in part by granulopoiesis induced by the S100A8/A9-NLRP3-IL-1β signaling axis in injury-exposed neutrophils. Despite the transcriptional upregulation of the NLRP3 (Nod Like Receptor Family Pyrin Domain-Containing 3) inflammasome and associated signaling components in neutrophils, the serum levels of IL-1β (interleukin-1β), the effector molecule in granulopoiesis, were not affected by MI, suggesting that IL-1β is not released systemically. We hypothesize that IL-1β is released locally within the bone marrow (BM) by inflammasome-primed and reverse-migrating neutrophils.

METHODS

Using a combination of time-dependent parabiosis and flow cytometry techniques, we first characterized the migration patterns of different blood cell types across the parabiotic barrier. We next induced MI in parabiotic mice by permanent ligation of the left anterior descending artery and examined the ability of injury-exposed neutrophils to permeate the parabiotic barrier and induce granulopoiesis in noninfarcted parabionts. Last, using multiple neutrophil adoptive and BM transplant studies, we studied the molecular mechanisms that govern reverse migration and retention of the primed neutrophils, IL-1β secretion, and granulopoiesis. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography.

RESULTS

MI promoted greater accumulation of the inflammasome-primed neutrophils in the BM. Introducing a time-dependent parabiotic barrier to the free movement of neutrophils inhibited their ability to stimulate granulopoiesis in the noninfarcted parabionts. Previous priming of the NLRP3 inflammasome is not a prerequisite, but the presence of a functional CXCR4 (C-X-C-motif chemokine receptor 4) on the primed-neutrophils and elevated serum S100A8/A9 levels are necessary for homing and retention of the reverse-migrating neutrophils. In the BM, the primed-neutrophils secrete IL-1β through formation of gasdermin D pores and promote granulopoiesis. Pharmacological and genetic strategies aimed at the inhibition of neutrophil homing or release of IL-1β in the BM markedly suppressed MI-induced granulopoiesis and improved cardiac function.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data reveal a new paradigm of how circulatory cells establish a direct communication between organs by delivering signaling molecules (eg, IL-1β) directly at the sites of action rather through systemic release. We suggest that this pathway may exist to limit the off-target effects of systemic IL-1β release.

Peripheral neutrophils and naive CD4 T cells predict the development of heart failure following acute myocardial infarction: A bioinformatic study

INTRODUCTION

Heart failure (HF) secondary to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is still a worldwide problem with a high mortality rate. The current study aimed to explore early and reliable predictive biomarkers of HF following AMI.

METHODS

The gene expression profile GSE59867 was downloaded from GEO. Array data from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was used from 46 control patients and 111 patients with AMI at four time points: (i) first day of AMI; (ii) 4-6 days after AMI; (iii) one month after AMI; and (iv) six months after AMI. Among the 111 AMI patients, nine with HF and eight without HF were studied. CIBERSORT was used to analyze the relative proportions of immune cells in PBMCs. The proportions of immune cells in different groups were compared. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed with R language packages.

RESULTS

The percentages of monocytes and neutrophils increased significantly on the first day of AMI, and then decreased gradually. The percentage of regulatory T cells increased significantly 4-6 days after AMI, while the percentage of resting memory CD4 cells, CD8 T cells, and resting natural killer cells decreased significantly on the first day of AMI, and then increased gradually. Patients who developed HF had a significantly higher proportion of neutrophils in PBMCs on the first day of AMI, but had a significantly lower proportion of naive CD4 T cells. Two shared genes, interleukin-1 receptor 2 (IL1R2) and leucine-rich repeat neuronal protein 3 (LRRN3), were found to have potentially important roles in predicting the development of HF following AMI.

CONCLUSION

A higher proportion of neutrophils and a lower proportion of naive CD4 T cells in PBMCs on the first day of AMI may be correlated with the development of HF following AMI. IL1R2 and LRRN3 may exert functions in the development of HF following AMI.

Prognostic role of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction undergoing to pharmaco-invasive strategy

OBJECTIVES

We sought to determine the relationship between in-hospital mortality and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing with pharmaco-invasive strategy (PIS).

BACKGROUND

Increased levels of white blood cells have been associated with adverse clinical outcomes in patients with (STEMI). NLR has recently emerged as a potent and more specific prognostic marker in predicting short- and long-term mortalityin patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention. This association has never been reported in patients managed with PIS.

METHODS

Between March 2010 and October 2016, 1860 STEMI patients managed with PIS were consecutively included in a dedicated database. The study population was divided into tertiles based on the admission NLR values (lower: <4.0, intermediate: 4.0 to <7.3, and upper: ≥7.3). Co-primary endpoints were in-hospital mortality and MACE (death, non-fatal reinfarction or stent thrombosis).

RESULTS

Patients in the upper NLR tertile had significantly higher in-hospital mortality (9.0% vs. 4.8% versus. 1.8%, p < 0.001) and MACE (11.6% vs. 8.0% versus 2.9%, p < 0.001) than patients with intermediate or low NLR. By multivariable logistic regression analysis, the upper NLR tertile was an independent predictor of MACE (odds radio [OR] 4.19, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 2.23-7.88, p < 0.001) and in-hospital mortality [OR 3.32, 95% CI 1.19-9.28, p = 0.02].

CONCLUSION

High NLR values were independently associated with in-hospital MACE and death in STEMI patients submitted to a PIS. NLR might be a simple and useful risk stratification tool in this high-risk population.

Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio as a Predictor of Long-Term Outcome in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients: A 5-Year Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

The mortality of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients remains high. The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), as an indicator of systemic inflammation, has been considered to be a predictor of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in hemodialysis patients. The present study aims to investigate the relationship between NLR and long-term outcome in PD patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included patients who initiated PD for at least 3 months between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2015. All the patients were followed up until death, cessation of PD, or to the end of the study (June 31, 2018). NLR was calculated as the ratio of neutrophils to lymphocytes.

RESULTS

A total of 140 patients were included in this study. The median NLR reported was 2.87. Patients with lower NLR showed a higher survival rate than patients with higher NLR (log rank 6.886, p = 0.009). Furthermore, patients with higher NLR had a significantly higher cardiovascular mortality (log rank 5.221, p = 0.022). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards model showed that older age (HR 1.054, 95% CI 1.017-1.092, p = 0.004), higher Ca × P (HR 1.689, 95% CI 1.131-2.523, p = 0.010), and higher NLR (HR 2.603, 95% CI 1.037-6.535, p = 0.042) were independent predictors of increased all-cause mortality. NLR was also independently associated with cardiovascular mortality (HR 2.886, 95% CI 1.005-8.283, p = 0.039). Higher NLR (HR 2.667, 95% CI 1.333-5.337, p = 0.006), older age (HR 1.028, 95% CI 1.005-1.052, p = 0.016), and history of cardiovascular disease (HR 1.426, 95% CI 1.195-3.927, p = 0.031) were significantly independently associated with poor peritonitis-free survival in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

NLR could be a strong predictor of long-term outcome in PD patients.

Ischemic Heart Disease Pathophysiology Paradigms Overview: From Plaque Activation to Microvascular Dysfunction

Ischemic heart disease still represents a large burden on individuals and health care resources worldwide. By conventions, it is equated with atherosclerotic plaque due to flow-limiting obstruction in large-medium sized coronary arteries. However, clinical, angiographic and autoptic findings suggest a multifaceted pathophysiology for ischemic heart disease and just some cases are caused by severe or complicated atherosclerotic plaques. Currently there is no well-defined assessment of ischemic heart disease pathophysiology that satisfies all the observations and sometimes the underlying mechanism to everyday ischemic heart disease ward cases is misleading. In order to better examine this complicated disease and to provide future perspectives, it is important to know and analyze the pathophysiological mechanisms that underline it, because ischemic heart disease is not always determined by atherosclerotic plaque complication. Therefore, in order to have a more complete comprehension of ischemic heart disease we propose an overview of the available pathophysiological paradigms, from plaque activation to microvascular dysfunction.

Emerging roles of neutrophil-borne S100A8/A9 in cardiovascular inflammation

Elevated neutrophil count is associated with higher risk of major adverse cardiac events including myocardial infarction and early development of heart failure. Neutrophils contribute to cardiac damage through a number of mechanisms, including attraction of other immune cells and release of inflammatory mediators. Recently, a number of independent studies have reported a causal role for neutrophil-derived alarmins (i.e. S100A8/A9) in inducing inflammation and cardiac injury following myocardial infarction (MI). Furthermore, a positive correlation between serum S100A8/A9 levels and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in MI patients was also observed implying that targeting neutrophils or their inflammatory cargo could be beneficial in reducing heart failure. However, contradictory to this idea, neutrophils and neutrophil-derived S100A8/A9 also seem to play a vital role in the resolution of inflammation. Thus, a better understanding of how neutrophils balance these seemingly contrasting functions would allow us to develop effective therapies that preserve the inflammation-resolving function while restricting the damage caused by inflammation. In this review, we specifically discuss the mechanisms behind neutrophil-derived S100A8/A9 in promoting inflammation and resolution in the context of MI. We also provide a perspective on how neutrophils could be potentially targeted to ameliorate cardiac inflammation and the ensuing damage.

Prognostic Value of the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Patients With Myocardial Infarction With Non-obstructive Coronary Arteries

Myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) is a heterogeneous entity with an inflammatory etiopathogenesis. This study investigated the prognostic value of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients with MINOCA. Coronary angiographies performed between June 2015 and August 2018 were analyzed retrospectively and included 72 patients with MINOCA and 248 controls with normal coronary angiograms. The predictors of mortality were determined by univariate Cox regression analysis. The mean age of the subjects was 46 ± 9 years, and 176 (55%) were female. Median follow-up was 21 (max: 42) months. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was significantly higher in the MINOCA group than in the controls (P < .01). During long-term follow-up, the number of deaths was 6 in the MINOCA group and none in the control patients (P < .01). Univariate Cox regression analysis revealed that the NLR (hazard ratio: 1.24, 95% confidence interval: 1.09-1.41, P = .001) was a predictor of mortality in patients with MINOCA. Kaplan-Meier analysis also showed that patients with MINOCA had relatively higher mortality rate (long-rank test; P < .01). In conclusion, the NLR is significantly higher in patients with MINOCA compared with controls, and it is a predictor of long-term mortality.

Mean platelet volume and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in patients with tinnitus: a case-control study

INTRODUCTION

Different theories have been proposed on the etiology of tinnitus, including metabolic and audiologic causes. We suggest that mean platelet volume and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio levels change in tinnitus, indicating microcirculatory disturbance and inflammatory process in the etiopathogenesis of tinnitus.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to evaluate the mean platelet volume and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in patients with tinnitus in comparison to healthy controls.

METHODS

Retrospective case-control study. Two-hundred and eighty-seven patients aged 18-59 years and diagnosed with tinnitus in the Ear, Nose, and Throat Clinic between December 2014 and May 2017 (patient group) and 275 healthy individuals who applied for a hearing screening within the same time period (control group). Demographics, concomitant diseases, laboratory results, and audiometric data were recorded. Mean platelet volume and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio were the outcome measures. Patients with hearing loss due to presbycusis or another reasons, and patients with anatomical disorders in the external and middle ear were excluded from the study by using physical examinations, pure audio audiometry results and radiological imaging. The upper age limit was set at 59 to exclude presbycusis patients.

RESULTS

The ratio of female patients was higher in patient group than control group (58.5%, n=168 vs. 49.4%, n=127; respectively; p=0.033). The mean age of patient group was significantly higher than those of control group (44.89±10.96 years and 38.37±10.65 years, respectively; p=0.001). The percentage of subjects with high mean platelet volume level was significantly higher in patient group than control group (9.4%, n=27, and 3.1%, n=8 respectively; p=0.008). The mean neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio was higher in patients with tinnitus than control group (1.95±1.02 and 1.67±0.57, p=0.012). A neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio level of 2.17 and above is associated with 1.991 times higher risk of tinnitus (odds ratio=1.99, 95% confidence interval 1.31-3.02).

CONCLUSION

High mean platelet volume and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio values are associated with idiopathic tinnitus, suggesting the role of vascular pathologies in etiology of tinnitus. Tinnitus may be a sign of underlying systemic or local disorders. Therefore, patients with tinnitus should undergo detailed evaluation including hematological indices.

Relation of White Blood Cell Count to Bleeding and Ischemic Events in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome (from the ATLAS ACS 2-TIMI 51 Trial)

An elevated white blood cell (WBC) count is associated with an increased risk of ischemic events among acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients, but the association between WBC count and bleeding in ACS patients is not well established. The aim of this analysis was to assess and compare the association between WBC count and the occurrence of short- and long-term bleeding and ischemic events. This was a post hoc analysis of the ATLAS ACS2-TIMI 51 trial. A subset of patients had a WBC count measurement at baseline (n = 14,231, 91.6%). Univariate and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were constructed to determine if there is an association between WBC count at baseline and a composite outcome of Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) major and minor bleeds at 30 days and 1 year. Variables with a p <0.2 in the univariate analysis were included as potential parameters in the backward selection process A similar multivariable model was constructed to assess the association between WBC count and a composite ischemic endpoint of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction and stroke. An increased risk of bleeding per a 1 × 10⁹/L increase in WBC at baseline was observed at 30 days (Adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.08 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01 to 1.17, p = 0.019) but not at 1 year (Adjusted HR 1.02 95% CI 0.97 to 1.08, p = 0.409). Additionally, an increased risk of ischemia per a 1 × 10⁹/L increase in WBC at baseline was observed at 30 days (Adjusted HR 1.07, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.12, p = 0.002) and at 1 year (Adjusted HR 1.05 95% CI 1.02 to 1.08, p = 0.001 at 1 year). In conclusion, a higher WBC count at baseline was associated with an increased risk of the composite bleeding endpoint by 30 days but not at 1 year. The association between WBC count and the risk of the composite ischemic endpoint was significant at 30 days and 1 year.

Neutrophil extracellular traps and dsDNA predict outcomes among patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) which have a potential role in noninfectious diseases, may play an important role in patients with acute coronary syndrome. The goal of this study was to investigate the association of NETs and in-hospital major adverse cardiac events among patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Using immunofluorescence staining, ELISA, and fluorescent enzyme standard instrument, we assessed NETs and NETs-related factors. Multivariate analyses were performed after univariate analyses to investigate which variables were independently associated with major adverse cardiac events. Compared with peripheral arteries, we observed neutrophils obtained from infarct-related artery (IRA) releasing NETs. The dsDNA levels, NET-specific marker myeloperoxidase/deoxyribonucleic acid (MPO/DNA) complexes and NETs-related factor tissue factor were significantly higher in coronary plasma samples. Multivariate analysis that white cell counts and coronary dsDNA were independently associated with in-hospital major adverse cardiac events. ROC curve for coronary dsDNA showed sensitivity of 78.0% and specificity of 53% for the cut-off value of 0.39ug/ml. Conclusion, these results provide evidences indicating NETs were associated with STIM, and occurrence of adverse cardiac events.

Association between Neutrophil-Lymphocyte and Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratios and Coronary Artery Calcification Score among Asymptomatic Patients: Data from a Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction

Atherosclerosis is a low-grade inflammatory disease. Among markers of inflammation, importance has been given to the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR). The objective of this study was to examine the association between these hematological indices of inflammation and coronary atherosclerotic calcification in clinically asymptomatic patients.

Methods

This study had clinical and laboratorial data collected from consecutive asymptomatic patients that underwent computed tomography coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring. Risk factors, NLR, and PLR were evaluated at different categories of CAC scoring. Statistical tests included chi-square, linear regression, and logistic regression. Patients (N = 247; age 60.4 ± 8.0 years and 60.7% men) were allocated into four categories according to the CAC score.

Results

Respective age, sex (male), NLR, and PLR distribution within groups were as follows: CAC = 0 (n = 98; 52.5 ± 13.6 years, 55%, 2.0 ± 1.0, and 121.5 ± 41.5), CAC 1-100 (N = 64; 61.3 ± 11.0 years, 60%, 2.2 ± 1.2, and 125.6 ± 45.6), CAC 101-400 (N = 37; 64.2 ± 11.6 years, 67%, 2.6 ± 1.3, and 125.4 ± 55.9), and CAC > 400 (N = 48; 69.3 ± 11.1 years, 66%, 3.3 ± 2.0, and 430.1 ± 1787.4). The association between risk factors and CAC score was assessed. Hypertension status and smoking status were similar within groups, while the presence of diabetes (P = 0.02) and older age (P ≤ 0.001) was more prevalent in the CAC > 400 group. LDL cholesterol was greater in the higher CAC score groups (P = 0.002). Multivariate logistic regression of the quartile analysis showed that age and NLR were independently associated with CAC > 100 (OR (CI), P value): 2.06 (1.55-2.73, P = 0.00001) and 1.82 (1.33-2.49, P = 0.0002), respectively.

Conclusion

Within asymptomatic patients, NLR provides additional risk stratification, as an independent association between NLR extent and CAD extent was identified. Moreover, PLR was not an inflammation marker for CAD severity.

Predictive prognostic value of neutrophil-lymphocytes ratio in acute coronary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To assess the relationship between neutrophil-lymphocytes ratio (NLR) at admission and patient outcome over a period of six month in subjects with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

METHODS

A total of 435 consecutive patients presenting with ACS were enrolled and 400 patients completed the study. Patients were categorized into 2 groups: the NLR group 1 (NLR≤5.25; n=265, 66.25%) and the NLR group 2 (NLR>5.25; n=135, 33.75%). The primary outcomes were in-hospital and 6 months mortality.

RESULTS

Forty-seven (11.8%) patients died during 6 months follow up. Higher mortality was seen in NLR group 2 (42/135, 34.1%) compared to NLR group 1 (5/265, 1.9%) with p value <0.001.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggest that elevated NLR (>5.25) is independently associated with higher all-cause mortality rate up to 6 months period irrespective of ACS type.

Red cell distribution width and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio predict left ventricular dysfunction in acute anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

OBJECTIVES

Red cell distribution width (RDW) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) are the two markers used to determine risk of mortality and adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction. The relationship between RDW, NLR, and left ventricular (LV) systolic functions has not been reported. In this report, we aimed to investigate the relationship between RDW, NLR, and LV systolic function in anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

RDW and NLR were measured on admission in 106 STEMI patients treated with primary PCI. Patients were divided into two groups according to left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), as Group I (systolic dysfunction, LVEF <50%) and Group II (preserved global left ventricle systolic function, LVEF ⩾50%). The first group included 47 patients and the second group included 59 patients.

RESULTS

Mean RDW and NLR were significantly higher in Group I compared to Group II [13.7 ± 0.9% vs. 13.4 ± 0.7%, p = 0.03 and 5.86 (range, 0.66-40.50) vs. 2.75 (range, 0.51-39.39), p = 0.013, respectively].

CONCLUSION

Increased RDW and NLR on admission, in anterior STEMI patients treated with primary PCI are associated with LV systolic dysfunction.

Higher neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio is related to a lower ejectionfraction in bicuspid aortic valve patients

BACKGROUND/AIM

Inflammation plays an important role in the pathophysiology of vascular disease. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the associations of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR; an indicator of inflammation) with left ventricular ejection fraction and ascending aorta diameter in patients with a bicuspid aortic valve (BAV).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and thirty-nine consecutive patients with the diagnosis of BAV were enrolled in the study. Complete blood counts were analyzed for neutrophil and lymphocyte levels and NLR. The subjects were separated into two groups based on their ascending aorta diameter. The patients with ascending aorta diameter equal to or above 3.9 cm were included in group 1 whereas those with ascending aorta diameter below 3.9 cm were included in group 2.

RESULTS

When the results were compared, it was demonstrated that there was a positive correlation between NLR and ascending aorta diameter (r: 0.485, P = 0.026), whereas there was a negative correlation between NLR and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (r: 0.475, P = 0.030), left ventricular end-systolic diameter (r: 0.482, P = 0.027), and left ventricular ejection fraction (r: -0.467, P = 0.033) in BAV patients with ascending aorta dilatation (group 1).

CONCLUSION

NLR is associated with ascending aorta diameter and left ventricular ejection fraction in BAV patients with ascending aorta dilatation.

Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio might help prediction of acute myocardial infarction in patients with elevated serum creatinine

Background and Objective:

Diagnostic performance of troponin assays is affected by renal insufficiency. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio(NLR) is an independent predictor of acute coronary syndrome. Our objective was to evaluate performance of NLR in diagnosing acute myocardial infarction (AMI) among patients with elevated serum creatinine.

Methods:

Patients with elevated creatinine levels evaluated for coronary artery disease were included (n=284). Patients were divided into two groups according to having AMI or non-specific chest pain. AMI diagnosis was made based on clinical and laboratory data, including serial EKG and cardiac enzymes, ECHO and coronary angiography.

Results:

Troponin, neutrophil, and NLR were found to be higher in patients with AMI, compared to patients without AMI (P= 0.001, P= 0.001 and P=0.028, respectively). ROC curve analysis for NLR in diagnosing AMI was significant (AUC: 0.607; P=0.003). Sensitivity, specificity, LR +, LR-, PPV and NPV for NLR>7.4 were found as 42.3%, 74.7%, 1.68%, 0.77%, 77% and 40%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed that patients whose NLR>7.4 were 2.18 times as likely to have AMI.

Conclusions:

NLR can be used as an independent predictor of AMI in patients with renal insufficiency. This seems to get more important in the era of high sensitivity troponin assays. Our results might also help in early diagnosis of AMI in this high risk population while serial cardiac enzyme results are pending.

Statin drugs mitigate cellular inflammatory response after ST elevation myocardial infarction, but do not affect in-hospital mortality

Introduction: The objective was to examine the role of statins in modulating post-STEMI inflammation and related mortality.

Methods: A total of 404 patients with STEMI were reviewed. Demographics, comorbidities, laboratory values, and outcomes were collected. The patients were grouped as STATIN and NOSTAT based on the use of statin drugs at the time of admission. Ninety-seven patients were receiving statin drugs.

Results: The patients in the STATIN group were more likely to be hypertensive (53.6%), diabetic (37.1%) and to have previous coronary revascularization (9.3%). Following propensity matching of 89 patients in STATIN group to an equal number of patients in NOSTAT controls had lower neutrophil count 7.8 (6.8-8.4) compared to those in the NOSTAT group 9.1 (7.9-10.1). Although there was no difference in-hospital mortality between the two groups, the incidence of pump failure was lower in the STATIN group (5.6% vs. 15.7%; P < 0.01).

Conclusion: Statin treatment prior to STEMI mitigates the cellular inflammatory response after the myocardial infarction, as evidenced by lower leukocyte and neutrophil cell counts in the STATIN group.

Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as a Marker in Patients with Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy

BACKGROUND

Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is the most common acute optic neuropathy in patients over the age of 50 and is the second most common cause of permanent optic nerve-related visual loss in adults after glaucoma. Although the precise cause of NAION remains elusive, the etiology of NAION is believed to be multifactorial.

AIMS

To evaluate the utility of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as a simple and readily available prognostic factor for clinical disease activity in patients with NAION.

STUDY DESIGN

Case-control study.

METHODS

Forty-five patients with the diagnosis of NAION and 50 age- and sex-matched controls with/without any systemic or ocular diseases except cataract were retrospectively enrolled in the study. Demographic characteristics and laboratory findings including complete blood count of all patients and control subjects were obtained from the electronic medical record. The neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were recorded and the NLR was calculated.

RESULTS

White blood cell, neutrophil, NLR and platelet values of the NAION patients were significantly higher than those of the controls (p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.004, p=0.037, respectively). Initial NLR values were negatively correlated with initial and the third month best corrected visual acuity levels in the study group. The optimum NLR cut-off point for NAION was 1.94.

CONCLUSION

NLR could be considered as a new inflammatory marker for assessment of the severity of inflammation in NAION patients with its quick, cheap, easily measurable property with routine complete blood count analysis.

Usefulness of Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio in Prediction of Coronary Artery Lesions in Patients with Kawasaki Disease

BACKGROUND

Kawasaki disease is an inflammatory condition. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio is a marker reflecting inflammation.

AIMS

The aim of the study is to evaluate usefulness of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in diagnosis of Kawasaki disease and in prediction of coronary artery lesions.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Seventy-five children with Kawasaki disease and 66 controls were retrospectively enrolled. Their leukocyte, neutrophil, and lymphocyte counts were recorded. Abnormally distributed data were shown as median (interquartile range). Cases having coronary artery diameter two standard deviation above mean were diagnosed to have coronary artery lesions.

RESULTS

Median age of Kawasaki disease patients was 34 months. Twentyfive of those (33.33%) had incomplete Kawasaki disease and twenty-six (34.66%) had coronary artery lesions. Leukocyte [12.61 (6.09)×10(3)/µL vs. 8.48 (5.58)×10(3)/µL], neutrophil [6.73 (4.10) ×10(3)/µL vs. 4.62 (5.47)×10(3)/µL], and lymphocyte [4.04 (2.91)×10(3)/µL vs. 3.02 (2.57) ×10(3)/µL] counts were significantly higher in Kawasaki disease patients compared to controls (all p values <0.01). However, there was not significant difference between patients and controls regarding neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio [1.72 (1.22) vs. 1.71 (1.88)]. Findings of Kawasaki disease and incomplete Kawasaki disease cases did not differ, while comparison of patients with and without coronary artery lesions revealed significantly higher neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio values in former group [2.02 (1.63) vs. 1.50 (1.28), p=0.01]. The cut-off neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio value for prediction of coronary artery lesions was determined as 1.32.

CONCLUSION

Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio values in Kawasaki patients with coronary lesions were significantly higher than the ones without and values greater than 1.32 were useful in prediction of coronary lesions.

Effect of Hematologic Parameters on Microvascular Reperfusion in Patients With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Treated With Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

OBJECTIVES

Despite the significant role of certain hematologic parameters in reperfusion injury, their relationship with microvascular reperfusion remains not well understood. Therefore, our objective was to evaluate the relationship between hematologic parameters at admission and microvascular reperfusion in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (primary PCI).

METHODS

A total of 213patients (mean age: 57.5 ± 11 years) with STEMI were included. Blood samples were obtained from all patients prior to primary PCI. Electrocardiographic recordings were made for the evaluation of ST-segment resolution (STR) before and after primary PCI. Angiographic assessment in the infarct-related artery was performed using the myocardial blush grade (MBG) and thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow. Patients were categorized into 2 groups as those with impaired microvascular reperfusion (STR <70%, TIMI: 0-1, and MBG: 0-1) and those with normal microvascular reperfusion (STR >70%, TIMI: 2-3, and MBG: 2-3).

RESULTS

Of the overall study group, 139, 105, and 69 patients had an STR of <70%, MBG of 0-1, and TIMI of 0-1, respectively. Demographic parameters in both groups are shown in the tables. Patients with impaired microvascular reperfusion were found to have higher white blood cell (WBC) count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, and mean platelet volume (MPV). Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and platelet count were similar between the 2 groups. Correlation analysis showed a negative correlation between lymphocyte count and STR (r: -.195, P: .004), lymphocyte count and TIMI flow(r: -.09, P: .14), and lymphocyte count and MBG (r: -.211, P: .002).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that higher WBC count and MPV at admission are independent predictors of impaired microvascular perfusion in patients with STEMI. On the other hand, a negative correlation was found between lymphocyte count and impaired microvascular perfusion. Specifically, elevated lymphocyte count seemed to indicate the presence of impaired microvascular reperfusion in patients with STEMI.

Prognostic Value of the Percentage of Neutrophils on Admission in Patients with ST-elevated Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

An elevated neutrophil count or neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio on admission has been reported to be an independent predictor of adverse cardiac events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The relationship between the percentage of neutrophils (N%) at the time of admission and the long-term outcomes in patients with ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) who have undergone primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness of the admission N% in predicting long-term mortality in patients with STEMI who were undergoing primary PCI.

METHODS

We evaluated 701 consecutive patients admitted to nine medical institutions in northwest China within 24 h after symptom onset from January 1, 2009-December 31, 2011. Using a receiver-operating characteristic analysis, N% ≥82.1% was the best predictor of long-term mortality. Patients were divided into two groups according to this criterion. Mean follow-up time was 39.03 months.

RESULTS

The long-term all-cause mortality rate was significantly higher in patients with a high N% level (7.17 vs. 3.11%, p = 0.015) as was the rate of cardiac mortality (6.48 vs. 2.59%, p = 0.013). In a multivariate logistic analysis, a high N% level was an independent predictor of long-term all-cause mortality (odds ratio 2.59, 95% confidence interval 1.21-5.53, p = 0.002) and long-term cardiac mortality (odds ratio 2.79, 95% confidence interval 1.24-6.28, p = 0.013).

CONCLUSIONS

A high N% level on admission is an independent predictor of long-term mortality in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI.

Association of neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio with obstructive coronary artery disease and coronary artery calcium score detected by multislice computed tomography in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to investigate the association of neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with coronary artery calcium score (CACS) and obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) detected by multislice computed tomography (MSCT) angiography in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

METHODS

Two hundred and ninety-two T2DM patients, who were either asymptomatic or symptomatic (but noncharacteristic) for coronary artery disease (CAD) and underwent MSCT angiography in our clinic between May 2009 and June 2014, were enrolled. All patients were divided into two groups according to their mean NLR values. Patients with NLR ≤2.05 were assigned to Group 1 and patients with NLR >2.05 were assigned to Group 2. The association of NLR with CACS and obstructive CAD, which were detected by MSCT angiography, was investigated in T2DM patients.

RESULTS

According to the Agatston scoring method, the mean CACS was 129.5±209.8 Au in Group 1 and 290.3±399.6 Au in Group 2 (P<0.001). Obstructive CAD was detected in 40 (26.8%) patients in Group 1 and in 56 (39.2%) patients in Group 2 (P<0.05, P<0.021).

CONCLUSION

The rate of obstructive CAD was significantly higher in the T2DM patients with NLR >2.05 than that in the T2DM patients with NLR ≤2.05. In addition, the CACS was also significantly higher in the T2DM patients with NLR >2.05 than that in the T2DM patients with NLR ≤2.05.

The relationship between coronary collateral circulation and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in patients with coronary chronic total occlusion

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the relationship between neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and coronary collateral circulation (CCC) in patients with coronary chronic total occlusion.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Our study population consisted of 275 consecutive patients with chronic total occlusion. One hundred and thirty-eight patients with chronic total occlusion were included in the study. They were classified into 2 groups as follows: impaired CCC (group 1: Rentrop grades 0-1) and good CCC (group 2: Rentrop grades 2-3). The NLR was calculated from the complete blood count.

RESULTS

The NLR values of the patients with impaired CCC (4.5 ± 0.7) were significantly higher than of those with good CCC (2.7 ± 0.6, p < 0.001). In the multivariate logistic regression test, NLR (OR 33.36, 95% CI 8.189-135.7, p < 0.001), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP; OR 2.152, 95% CI 1.226-3.777, p = 0.008), estimated glomerular filtration rate (OR 1.167, 95% CI 1.049-1.298, p = 0.004) and systolic blood pressure (OR 1.068, 95% CI 1.009-1.1310, p = 0.025) were independent predictors of impaired CCC. The NLR value >3.55 yielded an area under the curve value of 0.957 (95% CI 0.921-0.992, p < 0.001) and demonstrated a sensitivity of 95% and a specificity of 90% for the prediction of CCC. A moderate correlation between NLR and hs-CRP was observed (r = 0.443; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our findings reveal that NLR correlates with the impaired development of coronary collaterals.

Myocarditis in dogs: etiology, clinical and histopathological features (11 cases: 2007-2013)

Background

Myocarditis is a disease caused by numerous etiological factors and characterized by a non-specific course. The only method allowing for precise characterization of inflammatory changes is the histopathological examination of heart muscle specimens. The study was conducted on heart muscle preparations from 11 dogs with ante-mortem diagnosis of cardiac disease. Animals presented with a poor response to an applied treatment or had suspected sudden cardiac death. The heart specimens were taken post-mortem, preserved and stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Subsequently, the presence and intensity of changes, i.e. inflammatory infiltration, the amount of connective tissue and features of cardiomyocyte degeneration were estimated. The specimens from dogs suspected of having a myocarditis of bacteriological etiology underwent additional bacteriological and immunohistochemical examination.

Results

The examination revealed an inflammatory infiltration of variable intensity combined with the degenerative changes in all dogs. There were vegetative and abnormal cystic forms of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in 6 dogs. A Staphylococcus aureus infection was confirmed in one dog and an acute coronary syndrome with neutrophil infiltration was revealed in another one.

Conclusions

Although the clinical pattern in patients with myocarditis is diverse, the definitive morphological diagnosis is made based on the histopathological examination. This examination can lead to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of myocarditis combined with the presence of spore forms of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in the heart specimens of dogs.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13620-014-0028-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Predictive value of elevated neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio for long-term cardiovascular mortality in peripheral arterial occlusive disease

BACKGROUND

Peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD), which is common in male gender and elderly population, is related with increased cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been found to be an independent predictor of cardiovascular mortality in atherosclerosis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between NLR and cardiovascular mortality both in patients with intermittent claudication and critical limb ischemia.

METHODS

In a retrospective study, 593 consecutive patients who had been admitted to the inpatient ward of the vascular department of a large tertiary training and research hospital with diagnosis of symptomatic PAOD between May 2009 and September 2012 were included. Patients were divided into two groups according to their NLR as follows: high NLR (NLR>3.0) and low NLR (NLR ≤ 3.0) groups.

RESULTS

During the course of the present study [median follow-up period of 20 months (interquartile range, 12-27)], 75 deaths occurred out of 508 patients (14.8%). Cardiovascular mortality was found to be significantly higher in elevated NLR group (n = 43) as compared to low NLR group (n = 32) (23.6% vs 9.8%, respectively; p < 0.001). Even after adjustment of various risk factors, NLR > 3 and age were found as independent predictors of long-term cardiovascular mortality in Cox regression analysis [hazard ratios (95% confidence interval), 2.04 (1.26-3.30) and 1.04 (1.01-1.07), p = 0.004 and p = 0.004, respectively].

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that an increased NLR was related with higher cardiovascular mortality in patients with PAOD, who were admitted with critical limb ischemia or intermittent claudication. NLR, which reflects the patient's inflammatory status, is an inexpensive and readily available biomarker that provides an additional level of risk stratification beyond that provided by conventional risk scores in predicting long-term cardiovascular mortality in PAOD.

Neutrophil–Lymphocyte Ratio and Platelet–Lymphocyte Ratio Combination Can Predict Prognosis in Patients With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

We assessed the effect of combination of neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in predicting in-hospital and long-term mortality in patients (n = 2518) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). Cutoff values for NLR and PLR were calculated with receiver–operating characteristic (ROC) curves. If both PLR and NLR were above the threshold, patients were classified as “high risk.” If either PLR or NLR was above the threshold individually, patients were classified as “intermediate risk.” High-risk (n = 693) and intermediate-risk (n = 545) groups had higher in-hospital and long-term mortality (7.2 4% vs 0.7%, P < .001; 14.1, 9.5% vs 4.5%, P < .001, respectively). Classifying patients into intermediate-risk group (hazards ratio [HR]: 1.492, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.022-2.178, P = .038) and high-risk group (HR: 1.845, 95% CI: 1.313-2.594, P < .001) was an independent predictor of in-hospital and long-term mortality. The combination of PLR and NLR can be useful for the prediction of in-hospital and long-term mortality in patients undergoing pPCI.

The predictive Value of Total Neutrophil Count and Neutrophil/Lymphocyte Ratio in Predicting In-hospital Mortality and Complications after STEMI

Introduction: Leukocytosis, predominantly neutrophilia, has previously been described following ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The exact contribution of this phenomenon to the clinical outcome of STEMI is yet to be shown. We examined cellular inflammatory response to STEMI in the blood and its association with in-hospital mortality and/or adverse clinical events.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 404 patients who were admitted with the diagnosis of acute STEMI at Madani Heart Hospital from March 2010 to March 2012 were studied. The complete blood cell count (CBC) was obtained from all patientswithin12-24 hours of the onset of symptoms. Total leukocytes were counted and differential count was obtained for neutrophils, lymphocytes and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were evaluated. Association of cellular response with the incidence of post-MI mortality/complications was assessed by multiple logistic regression analyses.

Results: In-hospital mortality and post-STEMI complication rate were 3.7% and 43.6%, respectively. Higher age (P=0.04), female gender (0.002), lower ejection fraction (P<0.001) and absolute neutrophil count (P=0.04) were predictors of mortality. Pump failure in the form of acute pulmonary edema or cardiogenic shock occurred in 35 (8.9%) of patients. Higher leukocyte (P<0.03) and neutrophil counts (P<0.03) and higher NLR (P=0.01) were predictors of failure. The frequency of ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VT/VF) at the first day was associated with higher neutrophil count (P<0.001) and higher NLR level (P<0.001). In multivariate analysis neutrophil count was an independent predictor of mortality (OR=2.94; 1.1-8.4, P=0.04), and neutrophil count [OR=1.1, CI (1.01-1.20), P=0.02], female gender [OR=2.34, CI (1.02-4.88), P=0.04] and diabetes [OR=2.52, CI (1.21-5.2), P=0.003] were independent predictors of heart failure.

Conclusion: A single CBC analysis may help to identify STEMI patients at risk for mortality and heart failure, and total neutrophil count is the most valuable in predicting both.

Prognostic value of culprit site neutrophils in acute coronary syndrome

BACKGROUND

Recent data suggest that acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are characterized by an inflammatory subset of thrombosis. We have previously described the accumulation of neutrophils at the coronary culprit lesion site. In this work, we assessed the prognostic value of culprit site (CS) neutrophil accumulation on long-term mortality in patients with AMI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this prospective study, 417 AMI patients were enrolled after thrombectomy during primary percutaneous coronary intervention. The optimal cut-off for CS neutrophil accumulation for predicting 4-year all-cause mortality was calculated using time-dependent receiver operator characteristic curve analyses.

RESULTS

The median follow-up time was 39 months interquartile range (IQR 21·4-54·6 months) corresponding to 1217 patient years of follow-up. The cut-off for CS neutrophil accumulation (difference between culprit neutrophil counts and systemic neutrophil counts) was 0·25 Giga/l. CS neutrophil accumulation occurred in 195 patients (47%) and was independently associated with mortality (hazard ratio 1·88 (95%CI 1·02-3·41, P = 0·043)). In patients with CS neutrophil accumulation, 1-year mortality (10·8% vs. 7·2%) and 4-year mortality (19·8% vs. 10·4%) were markedly increased compared with patients without local neutrophil accumulation. Concordance index for CS neutrophil accumulation and mortality was 0·64 (95% CI 0·51-0·77; P = 0·035). Patients with CS neutrophil accumulation had significantly more often nonobstructive lesions compared with patients without neutrophil accumulation (32·6% vs. 22·4%; P = 0·024).

CONCLUSIONS

Neutrophil accumulation at the coronary culprit lesion site is a strong and independent predictor of mortality in patients with ACS/AMI.

White Blood Cell Subtypes and Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio in Prediction of Coronary Thrombus Formation in Non-ST-Segment Elevated Acute Coronary Syndrome

Leukocytes are reported as crucial not only for plaque activation but also in thrombus formation in acute coronary syndromes (ACSs). Among the markers of inflammation, in coronary artery disease neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been reported to have the greatest predictive power of poor outcomes. Our aim was to evaluate the association of NLR with coronary thrombus in patients with non-ST-segment elevated ACSs (NST-ACSs). A total of 251 patients were hospitalized with a diagnosis of NST-ACS including non-ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction and unstable angina pectoris. Coronary angiographies were performed. In 167 patients, coronary thrombus was detected. Between the patient groups with and without coronary thrombus, neutrophil count, platelet count, and NLR are significantly increased, and lymphocyte count is significantly decreased in the group with coronary thrombus as compared to patient group without coronary thrombus. Leukocyte count and NLR may give an indication about the presence of coronary thrombus. In NST-ACS, blood parameters may give valuable information about the status of the coronary arteries.

Relation of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio With GRACE Risk Score to In-Hospital Cardiac Events in Patients With ST-Segment Elevated Myocardial Infarction

In this study, we aimed to investigate the association of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) risk score in patients with ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI). We analyzed 101 consecutive patients with STEMI. Patients were divided into 3 groups by use of GRACE risk score. The association between NLR and GRACE risk score was assessed. The NLR showed a proportional increase correlated with GRACE risk score ( P < .001). The occurrence of in-hospital cardiac death, reinfarction, or new-onset heart failure was significantly related to NLR at admission ( P < .001). Likewise, NLR and GRACE risk score showed a significant positive correlation ( r = .803, P < .001). In multivariate analysis, NLR resulted as a predictor of worse in-hospital outcomes independent of GRACE risk score. Our study suggests that the NLR is significantly associated with adverse in-hospital outcomes, independent of GRACE risk score in patients with STEMI.

Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Long-Term Clinical Outcomes in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Background and Objectives

A higher neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been associated with poor clinical outcomes in various cardiac diseases. However, the clinical availability of NLR in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has not been known. We evaluated the availability of NLR to predict clinical outcomes in patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI.

Subjects and Methods

We analyzed 326 consecutive STEMI patients treated with primary PCI. The patients were divided into tertiles according to NLR: NLR≤3.30 (n=108), 3.31<NLR≤6.52 (n=108) and NLR>6.53 (n=110). We evaluated the incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), a composite of all causes of death, non-fatal MI, and ischemic stroke at the 12-month follow-up.

Results

The high NLR group was associated with a significantly higher rate of 12-month MACE (19.1% vs. 3.7%, p<0.001), 12-month death (18.2% vs. 2.8%, p<0.001), in-hospital MACE (12.7% vs. 2.8%, p=0.010) and in-hospital death (12.7% vs. 1.9%, p=0.003) compared to the low NLR group. In the multivariable model, high NLR was an independent predictor of 12-month MACE {hazard ratio (HR) 3.33 (1.09-10.16), p=0.035} and death {HR 4.10 (1.17-14.46), p=0.028} after adjustment for gender, left ventricular ejection fraction, creatinine clearance, angiographic parameters and factors included in the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction risk score for STEMI. There was a significant gradient of 12-month MACE across the NLR tertiles with a markedly increased MACE hazard in the high NLR group (log rank test p=0.002).

Conclusion

The NLR is a useful marker to predict 12-month MACE and death in patients with STEMI who have undergone primary PCI.

The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio was associated with impaired myocardial perfusion and long term adverse outcome in patients with ST-elevated myocardial infarction undergoing primary coronary intervention

OBJECTIVES

In the present study we aimed to reveal any probable correlation between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (N/L ratio) and the occurrence of no-reflow, along with assessment of the prognostic value of N/L ratio in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

BACKGROUND

The N/L ratio stands practically for the balance between neutrophil and lymphocyte counts in the body, which can also be utilized as an index for systemic inflammatory status.

METHODS

In our study, we included 204 consecutive patients suffering from STEMI who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Patients with STEMI were assigned into distinct tertiles based on their N/L ratios on admission. No-reflow encountered following PCI was evaluated through both angiography [Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) flow and myocardial blush grade (MBG)] and electrocardiography (as ST-segment resolution).

RESULTS

Patients featured with no ST-resolution were documented to have displayed significantly higher N/L ratio on admission compared to those with intermediate or complete ST-segment resolution. The number of the patients characterized with no-reflow, evident both angiographically (TIMI flow ≤ 2 or TIMI flow 3 with final myocardial bush grade ≤ 2 after PCI) and electrocardiographically (ST-resolution <30%), was encountered to depict increments throughout successive N/L ratio tertiles. Moreover, the same also held true for three-year mortality rates across the tertile groups (9% vs. 15% vs. 35%, p < 0.01). Multivariable logistic regression analysis disclosed that N/L ratio on admission stood for a significant indicator for long-term mortality in patients with no-reflow phenomenon detected with MBG. Elevated N/L ratio on admission was also found to be a significant indicator for three-year mortality and major adverse cardiac events.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with STEMI who underwent primary PCI, elevated N/L ratios on admission were revealed to be correlated with both no-reflow phenomenon and long-term prognosis.

Predictive value of elevated neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in patients undergoing primary angioplasty for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

OBJECTIVES

The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been investigated as a new predictor for cardiovascular risk. Admission NLR would be predictive of adverse outcomes after primary angioplasty for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

METHODS

A total of 2410 patients with STEMI undergoing primary angioplasty were retrospectively enrolled. The study population was divided into tertiles based on the NLR values. A high NLR (n = 803) was defined as a value in the third tertile (>6.97), and a low NLR (n = 1607) was defined as a value in the lower 2 tertiles (≤6.97).

RESULTS

High NLR group had higher incidence of inhospital and long-term cardiovascular mortality (5% vs 1.4%, P < .001; 7% vs 4.8%, P = .02, respectively). High NLR (>6.97) was found as an independent predictor of inhospital cardiovascular mortality (odds ratio: 2.8, 95% confidence interval: 1.37-5.74, P = .005).

CONCLUSIONS

High NLR level is associated with increased inhospital and long-term cardiovascular mortality in patients with STEMI undergoing primary angioplasty.

The long-term predictive value of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in Type 2 diabetic patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Patients with diabetes mellitus have worse long-term outcomes after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) than non-diabetics. This may be related to differential contribution of neutrophil and lymphocyte to inflammation during AMI in diabetics vs. non-diabetics. We aim to determine the predictive value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) for major adverse events post-AMI in Type 2 diabetics vs. non-diabetics.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 2559 consecutive patients admitted for AMI (61 ± 14 years, 73% male and 43% diabetic) were analyzed. A complete blood count was obtained and the NLR computed for each patient on admission. Across the cohort, the 1-year reinfarction rate was 8.4% (n = 214) and 1-year mortality was 14.5% (n = 370). Univariate determinants of the composite endpoint included age, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, smoking, revascularization and NLR (P < 0.001 for all). The cohort was divided into NLR quartiles. Admission NLR was significantly higher in the diabetic group, 5.2 ± 5.8 vs. 4.6 ± 5.4 (P = 0.007). A step-wise increase in the incidence of the composite endpoint was noted across NLR quartiles for diabetic subjects; hazard ratio (HR) was 2.41 for fourth vs. first quartile (95% confidence interval = 1.63-3.53, P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis of the diabetic group showed that NLR remains as an independent predictor of the composite endpoint (adjusted HR = 1.53, 95% confidence interval = 1.00-2.33, P = 0.048). However, in non-diabetics, HR for NLR was not significant (P = 0.35).

CONCLUSION

Increased NLR post-AMI is an independent predictor of major adverse cardiac events in diabetics. Monitoring this easily obtainable new index allows prognostication and risk stratification.