Prognostic values of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios in the early prediction of aluminum phosphide-poisoned patients' outcomes.

Background: In Egypt, aluminum phosphide (ALP) is one of the most serious health problems that threaten the health system, with a very high mortality rate that ranges from 30%-100% of cases, according to medical facilities. ALP records suicidal deaths related to the toxin ingestion in Egypt, which accounts for 70% of the deaths. Patients usually deteriorate early; death is expected in the first 48 h. The aim of this study is to investigate the early recorded neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in anticipation of the ALP-intoxicated patients' outcome.

Patients and methods: Thirty-three subjects diagnosed with ALP poisoning were divided into two groups according to their need for mechanical ventilation and whether they could survive or not. A complete blood count (CBC) was done immediately after admission, and NLR and PLR were calculated. Patients' conditions were evaluated by arterial blood gases (ABG), random blood sugar (RBS), sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), and an electrocardiogram (ECG).

Results: There were significant differences in the need for ICU and mechanical ventilation between the different NLR groups. There was also a highly significant difference in the patient's fate. Increased NLR was associated with a high incidence of mechanical ventilation and death in ALP-poisoned patients.

Conclusion: The early assessment of NLR can be valuable in predicting death and the need for ICU admission. NLR ≥ 3.35 can predict death in ALP-poisoned patients. Early CBC and calculation of NLR are promising tools that are easy and more accurate than the presence of leukocytosis or leucopenia.