Lactate–Albumin Ratio Tied to TBI Mortality
Admission biomarker showed prognostic value alongside clinical scoring systems in pediatric intensive care
By
Kathryn Wighton
April 17, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Lactate–Albumin Ratio Tied to TBI Mortality
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in Pediatric Patients Key Mechanisms Lactate-to-albumin ratio (LAR) as a prognostic marker Target Population Pediatric patients with TBI Care Setting Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Key Highlights
LAR values associated with mortality in pediatric TBI patients Overall mortality rate of 9% in the studied cohort Non-survivors had significantly higher PRISM III scores and lower pGCS scores LAR cutoff >0.68 showed 89% sensitivity and 78% specificity for mortality First study to evaluate LAR as a prognostic marker in pediatric TBI Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Utilize pediatric Glasgow Coma Scale and PRISM III scores for initial assessment Consider LAR as an additional prognostic tool Management
Monitor lactate and albumin levels in pediatric TBI patients Implement intensive interventions for patients with high LAR values Monitoring & Follow-up
Regular assessment of pGCS and PRISM III scores Track changes in lactate and albumin levels during ICU stay Risks
Higher likelihood of hypotension and subarachnoid hemorrhage in non-survivors Increased need for mechanical ventilation and renal replacement therapy Patient & Prescribing Data
Pediatric patients admitted with TBI
Higher LAR values indicate a need for aggressive management strategies
Clinical Best Practices
Incorporate LAR into routine prognostic assessments for pediatric TBI Ensure timely blood sampling post-injury for accurate LAR measurement Consider multi-faceted approach using various inflammatory indices for comprehensive evaluation References
