Abstract:

This literature review examines the clinical relevance of readily accessible haematological and nutritional biomarkers, including the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and the copper-to-zinc (Cu/Zn) ratio. Derived from routine blood tests, these markers offer cost-effective and non-invasive indicators of systemic inflammation and immune function. The review integrates current evidence highlighting their prognostic significance across a range of clinical conditions, with particular emphasis on pancreatic and colorectal cancers as well as inflammatory diseases. Elevated NLR, PLR, and Cu/Zn ratios—alongside decreased LMR—are consistently associated with more aggressive disease and poorer patient outcomes. The findings suggest that while these biomarkers provide meaningful prognostic insights, their greatest value emerges when used in conjunction with established clinical and laboratory measures, reinforcing their potential as integral components of personalized patient management and risk stratification.

Keywords: Laboratory, Ratios, Cu/Zn, NLR, PLR, LMR, Oncology