Raised Red cell distribution width is common hematological finding of HIV infection

Abstract

Background: Discuss relevant laboratory findings raised RDW with age and sex distribution. Establish care guidelines for HIV infected person and altered haematopoiesis resulting in with raised red cell distribution width. Aims & Objectives: To Review the pathogenesis of the haematological manifestations of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Materials and Methods: Blood was collected in a sterile EDTA containing tube and processed following our established laboratory protocol and by universal precaution as per the guideline of National aids control organization (NACO, India). A complete blood counting including HB%, PCV, Red cell indices, platelet count, Red cell distribution width and total white cell count and differential was done by Automated blood cell counter analyzer of all the patient on antiretroviral therapy. The all cell count indices including WBC count with differential and platelet count, was further confirmed by manual oil immersion smear study method. Peripheral smears study was done with field A and B Stain and Leishman stain. Results: In our study out of 300 HIV cases 189 cases (63%, n=300) shows increased RDW in which male cases are 125 cases (66.48%, n=188) and female cases are 64 (57.14%, N=112). Conclusion: RDW is commonly affected haematological parameter in HIV infective cases. Higher red blood cell distribution width is associated with a worse virologic and clinical situation in HIV infected.