Neonatal Sepsis It Ratio Calculator

I/T Ratio Formula:

\[ I/T Ratio = \frac{Immature Neutrophils}{Total Neutrophils} \]

I/T Ratio:

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1. What is the I/T Ratio?

The I/T (Immature to Total neutrophil) ratio is a diagnostic tool used in neonatal medicine to assess the likelihood of sepsis in newborns. It compares the number of immature neutrophils to the total neutrophil count in a blood sample.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the I/T ratio formula:

\[ I/T Ratio = \frac{Immature Neutrophils}{Total Neutrophils} \]

Where:

Immature Neutrophils — Count of immature neutrophils (bands and earlier forms)
Total Neutrophils — Count of all neutrophils (mature and immature)

Explanation: The ratio helps identify bacterial infections in neonates, with higher values suggesting greater likelihood of sepsis.

3. Importance of I/T Ratio Calculation

Details: The I/T ratio is a valuable screening tool for neonatal sepsis, particularly in the first 72 hours of life. It helps guide decisions about antibiotic therapy and further diagnostic testing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the immature neutrophil count and total neutrophil count from a complete blood count (CBC) with differential. Both values must be valid (counts ≥ 0, total > 0, immature ≤ total).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal I/T ratio in newborns?
A: In healthy term infants, the I/T ratio is typically less than 0.16. Values above 0.2-0.25 are often considered abnormal and suggestive of infection.

Q2: How accurate is the I/T ratio for diagnosing sepsis?
A: While not definitive, the I/T ratio has good sensitivity (around 90%) for early-onset sepsis when combined with other clinical markers.

Q3: Does the I/T ratio change with gestational age?
A: Yes, preterm infants may have slightly higher normal ranges. Always interpret results in context with gestational age and clinical presentation.

Q4: When should I/T ratio be measured?
A: It's most useful in the first 72 hours of life when evaluating for early-onset sepsis, particularly when maternal risk factors are present.

Q5: What other tests complement the I/T ratio?
A: The I/T ratio is typically used alongside C-reactive protein (CRP), complete blood count, blood cultures, and clinical assessment for a comprehensive evaluation.