Role of the Monocyte-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as a Biomarker for Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Introduction

Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is a major global health concern, and rapid and reliable diagnosis in endemic areas is crucial. The monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) represents the relationship between absolute monocyte and lymphocyte counts, and recent studies suggest that an elevated MLR is a promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for PTB. It provides insight into the immune response to chronic infection, making it a potential biomarker. This study aimed to evaluate changes in the MLR in patients with active PTB before and after treatment completion. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Pathology at Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal in Karnataka over a 4-year period. The study included 136 patients diagnosed with PTB and 150 healthy controls. The MLR was assessed in patients with PTB before and after treatment completion and compared with that in healthy controls. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.