Evaluating Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as a Predictive Biomarker of Liver Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis B

Abstract

Introduction: This study evaluates the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio
(PLR) as a predictive, non-invasive biomarker for assessing liver
fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Liver fibrosis

staging is crucial for disease management, and a reliable non-
invasive marker could reduce the need for liver biopsy.Methods:

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Dr. RML Hospital,
New Delhi, including 120 CHB patients. Patients were categorized based
on fibrosis severity (F0-F4) using transient elastography (FibroScan).
PLR was calculated by dividing the platelet count by the lymphocyte
count. Statistical analysis included ROC curve analysis to determine the
predictive accuracy of PLR, with sensitivity, specificity, and predictive
values assessed at an optimal cut-off.
Results: PLR was significantly lower in patients with advanced fibrosis
(mean PLR: 106.07 ± 10.97) compared to those with mild or no fibrosis
(mean PLR: 115.55 ± 11.17) (p < 0.001). ROC analysis indicated a PLR
cut-off of 112.5, with a sensitivity of 81.67% and a specificity of 66.67%
for predicting advanced fibrosis (F4). The area under the curve (AUC)
was 0.73, indicating moderate diagnostic accuracy.
Conclusion: PLR shows a significant correlation with liver fibrosis severity
and may serve as a cost-effective, non-invasive biomarker for fibrosis
assessment in CHB patients. These findings suggest that PLR could aid
in early disease monitoring and risk stratification, reducing reliance on
invasive liver biopsy.

How to cite this article:
Raj U, Singh J. Evaluating Platelet-to-Lymphocyte
Ratio as a Predictive Biomarker of Liver Fibrosis
in Chronic Hepatitis B. J Adv Res Med 2024;
11(4): 7-13.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/2349.7181.202410