Maternal platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio at delivery can predict poor neonatal outcome in preterm births

OBJECTIVE: To determine the role of the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in predicting poor neonatal outcome among preterm births (PTB). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The medical records of 439 PTBs and 200 normal pregnancies were reviewed retrospectively using some personal and obstetric data, as well as complete blood count reports. RESULTS: There were significantly poor neonatal outcomes among PTBs in regard to birth weight, APGAR score, morbidity, and mortality. There were significantly poor outcomes for preterm neonates delivered to mothers with PLR ≥80 at delivery for low APGAR score, respiratory distress syndrome, intraventricular hemorrhage and perinatal death. There was a significant negative correlation between maternal PLR at delivery and birth weight, as well as gestational age of PTB. CONCLUSION: Maternal PLR at delivery has a significant relationship with neonatal outcomes. It can predict preterm neonates with poor outcomes.