Value of Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio in Early Prediction of Meconium Aspiration Syndrome

Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is a serious neonatal condition. Prediction of MAS is challenging particularly in low-resource setting. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a new simple index used for diagnosis of many inflammatory conditions. The present study was an attempt to determine whether NLR can predict the occurrence of MAS. The present study included 101 children with meconium-stained amniotic fluid. They comprised 22 patients who developed MAS and 79 neonates who didn't have the condition. All neonates were subjected to careful analysis of maternal and perinatal history in addition to thorough clinical assessment and radiological and laboratory evaluation. Blood samples from the umbilical cord were collected at birth and were used to obtain complete blood counts and C-reactive protein (CRP) assay. Univariate analysis revealed that elevated CRP levels, increased NLR, and 5-minute Apgar score of <7 were significant risk factors for the occurrence of MAS. Multivariate analysis revealed that low 5-minute Apgar score and increased NLR remained as significant risk factors of MAS. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed good performance of NLR in prediction of MAS. NLR is useful in prediction of MAS in term neonates with meconium-stained amniotic fluid.