What is the Immature to Total Ratio (I/T) primarily used for?

The Immature to Total Ratio (I/T) is primarily used to estimate the risk of infection, particularly in neonates. This ratio is calculated by comparing the number of immature neutrophils (also known as band cells) to the total number of neutrophils. An elevated I/T ratio indicates an increased number of immature neutrophils, which is often seen in response to infection. In neonates, an elevated I/T ratio is a critical marker that can help healthcare providers identify potential infections early, allowing for prompt medical intervention.

This clinical tool is particularly significant because it helps differentiate between a benign physiological response and a pathological one, especially in vulnerable populations such as newborns. Subsequently, a higher I/T ratio can lead practitioners to investigate further for signs of sepsis or other infectious processes, making it an essential parameter in neonatal care.