Journal of International Medical Research, cilt.42, sa.2, ss.581-588, 2014 (SCI-Expanded)
Objective: Leukocytosis is thought to be directly associated with the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome. Increased white blood cell (WBC) count is related to cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus; raised neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is associated with metabolic syndrome. There is little information, however, concerning a correlation between glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and NLR. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between NLR and blood glucose regulation. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, divided into two groups according to HbA1c levels: group 1, HbA1c levels >7%; group 2, HbA1c levels >7%. Venous WBC, neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were determined. Results: Of 71 patients included, fasting serum glucose, neutrophil and WBC counts were significantly higher in group 2 compared with group 1. NLR had a positive correlation with HbA1c. Conclusion: There may be a significant relationship between NLR and blood glucose regulation. The authors propose that increased NLR may be associated with elevated HbA1c in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. © The Author(s) 2014 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.