MLR compares monocytes and lymphocytes to show immune balance and possible inflammation.
The monocyte to lymphocyte ratio (MLR) is a calculated value, not a separate blood test. It compares two types of white blood cell, monocytes and lymphocytes, both reported in a full blood count.
The formula is: monocyte count ÷ lymphocyte count.
The balance between monocytes and lymphocytes shifts with inflammation and immune stress. MLR captures this in one number and has been studied as a marker in chronic infection, inflammatory disease and some cancers.
A higher ratio reflects a more inflammatory or immune-stressed state and has been linked with poorer outcomes in several conditions. A lower ratio is generally more favourable.
Aniva reads your result against research-backed ranges, not just the lab's wide normal. The reference shown below is specific to this biomarker.
There is no firmly established healthy reference range for MLR, and values vary by population and assay. It is used mainly as a relative marker, where higher values suggest more inflammation or immune stress. Interpret as a trend with a clinician rather than against a fixed cutoff.
White cell counts shift with infection, stress, corticosteroids and time of day, so recent illness can move the ratio. It is non-specific and reflects the limits of both components, so it should be read in context rather than alone.
Read with its components, monocyte and lymphocyte counts, and alongside the full blood count, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and hs-CRP.
What does my MLR result mean? It shows the balance of two white blood cell types. Higher values may signal more immune activity; use with other results.
Do I need to fast for this test? No. Fasting does not typically affect MLR.
What can affect my MLR? Recent illness, stress, hard exercise, smoking, dehydration, pregnancy, and medicines like steroids can shift the ratio.
How often should I test it? Usually only when your clinician is tracking a trend or follow-up. Many people do not need frequent checks.
How long do results take? Results are usually ready in about 7 days.
What should I discuss with my clinician? Share symptoms, recent infections or vaccines, and all medicines and supplements, and review how this fits with your CBC and CRP.
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