Alterations of the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio during the period of stable and acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

Abstract

Elevated NLR can be used as a marker similar to CRP, WBC and ESR, in the determination of increased inflammation in acutely exacerbated COPD. NLR could be beneficial for the early detection of potential acute exacerbations in patients with COPD who have normal levels of traditional markers.