At univariable Cox regression analysis, NLR ≥ 2.42, age, Child–Pugh classes, MELD score, the presence of ascites, encephalopathy, HCC, PVT, lower baseline values of serum albumin, higher values of bilirubin and INR were all associated with mortality during the follow-up (Table 2). Here, ALB is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma.