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The following is a summary of “Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in urolithiasis: a systematic review,” published in the March 2025 issue of BMC Urology by Khanzadeh et al. 

Urolithiasis affects millions worldwide, requiring a rapid, cost-effective biomarker. Inflammation plays a role, and an elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) may indicate renal stones. 

Researchers conducted a retrospective study to analyze NLR’s role in urolithiasis.  

They systematically searched Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science until January 1, 2023. They followed PRISMA guidelines and registered for the study in PROSPERO (CRD42024500756). About 2 reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts, resolving disputes through discussion. Inclusion criteria: peer-reviewed original studies, NLR calculated as neutrophils/lymphocytes, reported peripheral blood NLR, and evaluated NLR’s predictive and diagnostic effectiveness in urolithiasis. 

The results showed that 33 studies were included. Patients in acute or subacute phases had higher NLR than healthy controls, with significant differences between phases. NLR predicted sepsis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), and spontaneous stone passage in patients with urolithiasis. 

Investigators found NLR to be a reliable biomarker for predicting patients with urolithiasis conditions in clinical settings. 

Source: bmcurol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12894-025-01720-y