A Clinical Study on the Association Between Serum Lactate–Albumin Ratio and Sepsis Severity in ICU Patients at a Tertiary Care Hospital
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64252/b1rdj615Keywords:
Sepsis, Lactate/Albumin Ratio, ICU, SOFA Score, Multiorgan Dysfunction, Mortality, Biomarker.Abstract
Introduction: Sepsis remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in intensive care units (ICUs), with outcomes influenced by timely recognition and severity assessment. The lactate/albumin ratio (LAR) has emerged as a simple, accessible biomarker with prognostic potential.
Aim: To evaluate the association between serum LAR and sepsis severity in ICU patients at a tertiary care hospital in Chennai.
Methods: This hospital-based observational study included 100 adult ICU patients diagnosed with sepsis. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data, including serum lactate and albumin levels, were collected to calculate LAR. Associations between LAR, SOFA scores, organ dysfunction, and outcomes were analyzed using SPSS, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: The mean age was 56.8 ± 14.2 years, with 62% males. The mean LAR was 1.5 ± 0.5 and was significantly higher in patients with multiorgan dysfunction and mortality (p < 0.001). LAR positively correlated with SOFA scores, creatinine, and INR, and inversely with platelet count. Patients with LAR > 1.25 exhibited significantly increased rates of organ dysfunction and death. Systemic hypertension and anemia were notable predictors of severity.
Conclusion: LAR is a reliable, independent marker of sepsis severity, correlating strongly with SOFA scores and adverse outcomes. Its simplicity and accessibility make it a valuable adjunct in early sepsis assessment and ICU triage.
