Lymphocyte/Monocyte Ratio Associated with Survival Duration in CLL

An augmentation of lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR) value in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is correlated with a decline in survival, according to a study published in the Journal of Hematology.

 Researchers sought to determine the relationship of LMR value in CLL, which they noted has previously shown to be a prognostic factor in various solid organ tumors and certain hematological cancers. In this retrospective study, they assessed 173 patients who were followed between 2005 and 2019. The researchers then evaluated diagnostic age, gender, laboratory, absolute lymphocyte, monocyte count, LMR and overall survival (OS), treatment and responses, recurrence, cytogenetic subtype, and mortality rates for analysis.

According to the results of the study, the median LMR was 26.7, and it was considered as cutoff value of 26, the researchers noted. They observed a positive association between LMR and Rai Stage. “LMR was significantly higher in patients who have an indication for treatment or who died,” the researchers wrote of the results.

They concluded, “In our study, in CLL, LMR has been shown to be over 26 in advanced stages, in relapse, or with indication of a treatment. With the increase of LMR, it was found that survival and disease-free gap decreased.”