Peripheral Neutrophil- Lymphocyte Ratio as a Predictor of Seizure in Preterm Infants with Intra-Ventricular Hemorrhage

Background: Preterm infants with Intra-Ventricular Hemorrhage (IVH) are at risk for developing significant complications, including post hemorrhagic hydrocephalus and seizures. Neonatal seizures are the most common overt manifestation of neurological dysfunction in the newborn, and is associated with short- and long-term adverse effects.

Objective: The aim of the study is to evaluate the value of Peripheral Neutrophil- lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as a predictor of seizure in preterm infants with intra-ventricular hemorrhage.

Methods: This prospective cohort study that comprised 60 Preterm infants with IVH admitted at NICU pediatric department Tanta university hospital from November 2019 to May 2020, Preterm infants were divided into two groups according to incidence of seizure.

Preterm infants in this study subjected to Careful history taking, clinical examination and investigations (laboratory and Trans-cranial ultrasound) as well as analysis of result and follow up clinical status for development of seizure.

Results: There was a statistically highly significant difference regarding NLR and development of seizure with p value <0.001 (NLR ≥ 2.3 with sensitivity 96%, specificity 93%, Area under the curve 0.849 and accuracy 84.9%).

Conclusion: NLR is a predictor of seizure in preterm infants with intra-ventricular hemorrhage.