Blood Cell Indices Research Articles

Development of a Novel Algorithm Using Red Blood Cell Indices for Screening of Alpha Globin Gene Deletions

Abstract Distinguishing between different causes of microcytic anemia is essential for management of anemic patients. More than 20 different RBC indices have been used to screen thalassemia trait with inconsistent results. Differentiation between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and alpha-thalassemia appears to be more challenging than differentiation between IDA and beta-thalassemia, based on RBC indices alone. Moreover, thalassemia and IDA may coexist. A highly sensitive screening algorithm is needed to select clinical cases for alpha globin gene analysis to reduce unnecessary testing and improve pre-test probabilities. A retrospective study was performed to evaluate the reliability of 22 RBC indices (RBC, MCV, RDW, MCH, Mentzer Index, RDW Index, etc) and formulae in differentiating cases with 1-2 alpha globin gene deletions from negative cases, in a cohort of 90 individuals with confirmatory alpha globin gene analysis results. The number of patients with each alpha globin gene deletion pattern were: 37 patients with alpha-thalassemia trait, 21 silent carriers (one gene deletion), 31 negative patients and 1 patient with triplicated alpha globin gene. The mean RBC count in each group were 4.79 +/- 0.65 (trait), 4.45 +/- 0.73 (carrier), and 4.21 +/- 0.84 (negative) (million/mm). The mean MCV in each group were 71.1 +/- 4.8 (trait), 76.1 +/- 5.9 (carrier), and 74.2 +/- 9.3 (negative) (fl). The mean RDW in each group were 16.5 +/- 3.0 (trait), 17.2 +/- 3.4 (carrier), and 18.3 +/- 4.9 (negative) (%). The mean MCH in each group were 22.0 +/- 1.8 (trait), 23.8 +/- 2.3 (carrier), and 23.5 +/- 3.7 (negative) (pg). None of the RBC indices showed significant difference between carrier and negative groups, while 20 RBC indices showed significant difference (p<0.05) between trait and negative groups. The sensitivities of the RBC indices in detecting 1-2 alpha globin gene deletions based on published cutoffs ranged between 3.4% and 81.0%, while the specificities ranged between 41.9% and 100%. A novel scoring algorithm based on the combination of 12 RBC indices and formulae achieved a sensitivity of 96.6% in detecting 1-2 alpha globin gene deletions, with a negative likelihood ratio of 0.15. The negative likelihood ratio of the scoring algorithm outperformed each of the 12 RBC indices at similar levels of sensitivities (>95%) based on revised cutoffs. The algorithm is a highly sensitive tool for screening of alpha globin gene deletions, including one gene deletion. It is more effective at identifying negative cases compared to individual RBC indices. Implementation of the algorithm could efficiently reduce 10.0% (9/90) of the test volume of alpha globin gene analysis. A more stringent version of the algorithm could achieve 100% sensitivity and reduce 5.6% (5/90) of the alpha globin gene analysis test volume.

Correlation Between Controlling Nutritional Status Scores and Amputation Risks in Patients with Diabetic Foot Ulcers

To retrospectively analyze the clinical features and treatment outcomes of patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), and to investigate the effect of controlling nutritional status (CONUT) scores on the amputation risks and hospital length-of-stay of DFU patients. A total of 357 DFU inpatients admitted to the Department of Endocrinology, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2018 were enrolled and analyzed retrospectively. Based on their CONUT scores, the patients were divided into 3 groups, a normal nutritional status group consisting of patients with CONUT scores 0-1 ( n=100), a mild malnutrition group consisting of patients with CONUT scores 2-4 scores ( n=164), and a moderate-to-severe malnutrition group consisting of patients with CONUT scores≥5 ( n=93). According to whether they underwent amputation, patients were divided into an amputation group ( n=110) and a non-amputation group ( n=247). The clinical characteristics, amputation rate, and hospital length-of-stay were compared between groups with different CONUT scores. Logistic regression was conducted to analyze the independent risk factors of amputation. The total amputation rate of DFU patients was 30.6%. Among all amputations, the major amputation (above-the-ankle amputation) rate was 1.8%, and the minor amputation rate was 98.2%. The amputation rate in patients with mild and moderate-to-severe malnutrition were 1.5 and 3.0 times higher than those in the normal nutritional status group, respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that the moderate-to-severe nutritional status (5-12 scores), white blood cell, Wagner classification and ankle-brachial index were independent risk factors for amputation. CONUT score is closely associated with amputations in DFU patients. Improving the nutritional status of patients in the early stage could reduce the risk of amputation.

Red blood cell indices as an effective marker for the existence and severity of endometriosis (STROBE).

To evaluate the association between red blood cell (RBC) indices (mean corpuscular volume [MCV], mean corpuscular hemoglobin [MCH], MCH concentration [MCHC], red cell distribution width [RDW], hemoglobin [Hb], hematocrit [Hct], and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio [NLR]) and the severity of endometriosis.Data were obtained from the medical records of 200 patients with endometriosis (stage I/II and stage III/IV groups), and 100 patients with benign ovarian tumors (control group), treated between September 2011 and April 2021.The mean Hb and Hct were significantly lower in the stage III/IV group compared to those in the control and stage I/II group (P = .015 and P = .004, respectively). The mean MCV, MCH, and Hb at postoperative day (POD)#1 were significantly lower in the stage III/IV group compared to those in the control and stage I/II group (P = .007, P = .032, and P < .0001, respectively). In addition, NLR at POD#1 was significantly higher in stage III/IV group compared to that in the control and stage I/II group. Multivariate analysis revealed that younger age (≤38 years old), lower preoperative MCV (≤88.5 fL), lower POD#1 Hb (<11.6g/dL), and higher POD#1 NLR (>2.5) were independent risk factors of stage III/IV endometriosis.Lower levels of RBC indices, including preoperative MCV and postoperative Hb, and higher postoperative NLR were significantly associated with the severity of endometriosis, which is potentially derived from a dysregulation in iron metabolism and inflammation.

Performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of goat kids supplemented with inulin

• Higher carcass yields were observed after inulin supplementation. • Blood parameters were positive influenced on the oxygen transport system. • The animals exceeded the estimated daily weight gain. • Between sexes, males shown superior results at most of the parameters Inulin is a fructooligosaccharide with prebiotic and bifidogenic properties, contributing to the intestinal health of animals. This study aimed to evaluate the performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and blood parameters of Boer × Saanen goat kids supplemented with inulin. Thirty animals were distributed in a completely randomized design in a 3×2 factorial scheme with three levels of inulin (0, 3, and 6 g/kg DM) and sex (male and female). The diet was formulated and adjusted to gain 0.150 kg/day and the slaughter weight was 30 kg. Inulin supplementation had a linear, positive effect on carcass yield (P= 0.03). However, animal performance, carcass characteristics, tissue proportions, and muscle proximate composition were not influenced by inulin levels. Males had a lower slaughter age, higher muscle proportion, lower fat, and higher protein content than females. Red blood cell, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels increased with inulin supplementation compare to the control treatment (P<0.01). Inulin supplementation at 3 g/kg DM can be used in the diet of goat kids yielding a better carcass yield and improving red blood cell indices in Boer × Saanen goat kids.

Prevalence and risk factors for functional iron deficiency in children with chronic kidney disease.

Anemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is multifactorial. The presence of functional iron deficiency (FID), whereby, there is a block in the transport of iron from macrophage to erythroid marrow is one possible etiology. In this study, we aim to assess the prevalence and risk factors of FID in pediatric CKD. A cross-sectional study was performed from March to December 2018, after obtaining Institute Ethical Clearance. Children aged ≤ 12years with CKD, with or without iron supplementation who consented were enrolled. Patients on erythropoietin or on maintenance dialysis were excluded. Details of patients and diseases characteristics were recorded. Various laboratory parameters including complete blood count, red blood cell indices, hypochromic RBC, reticulocyte hemoglobin content, and serum ferritin were measured. Appropriate statistical tests were applied. Out of 174 children, 127 (73%) had structural kidney disease as an etiology of CKD, and 110 (63%) had anemia. Prevalence of anemia was 44%, 43%, 74%, 64% and 92% in CKD stage 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively. Absolute iron deficiency was found in 66 (38%) even when some children were already on iron supplementation. FID was seen in 44 (25%) and on multivariate analysis, lower estimated glomerular filtration rate and mineral bone disease are associated risk factors. FID is present in one-fourth of our CKD cohort. It should be considered when the response to adequate measures of improving hemoglobin level fails. More studies are required to know its impact on short-term and long-term patient-related outcomes such as quality of life and mortality.

The effect of experimentally induced hyperglycemia by alloxan on some hematological parameters in rabbits

The study was designed to investigate the effects of hyperglycemia on some hematological and serum lipid parameters in rabbits during a period of seventy days. This study was achieved in the university of Al-Qadisyiah / college of veterinary medicine college department of pathology from 31/10/2008 till 10/02/2009. The parameters evaluated include serum lipids, red and white blood cell indices. The results show that the hyperglycemia significantly reduced (P&lt;0.05) packed cell volume and red blood cell count when compared with control groups. Also, the hyperglycemia significantly reduced (P&lt;0.05) white blood cell count when compared with control. Moreover, the hyperglycemia significantly elevated (P&lt;0.05) total cholesterol concentration in the serum while it had less significant effect (P&lt;0.05) on serum HDL-cholesterol concentration when compared with controls. Whereas, hyperglycemia significantly increased (P&lt;0.05) serum triglycerol concentration. The results of this study suggest that hyperglycemia may have extrusive effect on serum cholesterol concentration, although it possibly possesses the potential of adversely affecting some hematological indices.

An Osteopathic Approach to Anemia

With close to 2 billion people affected globally, anemia is a commonly seen condition worldwide. Diagnosed by a patient’s low hemoglobin, and then subsequently differentiated through red blood cell indices, a complete blood count should be performed on every patient presenting with the classic symptoms of anemia. Iron studies, as well as the corrected reticulocyte count and peripheral blood smears, can also be of use to further specify the exact type of anemia. Additionally, tests including colonoscopies, upper endoscopies and gynecologic procedures should be considered to identify the different underlying causes of the disease. The most common microcytic anemias include iron deficiency, thalassemia and anemia of inflammation. Deficiencies in folate and B12—also known as cobalamin—are the most common etiologies of macrocytic anemia. Treatment of each of these types of anemia is tailored to the individual patient based on the severity of their condition as well as the specific underlying cause. Osteopathically, anemia falls largely into the respiratory-circulatory model, as well as the metabolic-energy model, which can also be used to guide treatment. For a family physician, identifying symptoms, making accurate diagnoses and properly treating patients with anemia is of the utmost importance.

Screening role of complete blood cell count indices and C reactive protein in patients who are symptomatic for COVID-19

INTRODUCTION: Diagnosis of COVID-19 is through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or typical involvement of the lung by the virus in computed tomography (CT) scan. However, PCR is not always available, and also CT scan has a high dose of radiation. This study was performed to find the role of complete blood cell (CBC) indices and qualitative C-reactive protein (CRP) in screening of symptomatic patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A diagnostic accuracy study was performed on symptomatic cases in Abadan. Four stepwise logistic regression models were designed that the outcomes were PCR positivity, CT scan positivity, PCR and CT scan positivity, and COVID-19 positivity (i.e., PCR or CT scan positivity). Post-estimation receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis was performed to report the area under the curve (AUC). RESULTS: A total of 104 patients were studied. The most accurate model was for the prediction of CT scan positivity (AUC = 0.874) in which the predictors were age [odds ratio (OR) =1.063] and CRP (OR = 2.661 for each plus of positivity). The second accurate model was for the prediction of COVID-19 positivity (AUC = 0.828) in which the predictors were white blood cell count (OR = 0.735 for every 1000 counts per μ L) and neutrophil per lymphocyte ratio (OR = 1.248). CONCLUSIONS: Higher levels of CRP are associated with and predictor of lung involvement in COVID-19 infection. CRP qualitative levels can be measured before a CT scan if there is no other indication for imaging.

Evaluation of Lipid Profiles and Hematological Parameters in Hypertensive Patients

Aim: To evaluate the lipid profiles and hematological parameters in hypertensive patients. Study design: Cross sectional analytical study Place and duration of study: Department of Hematology, Shaikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore from 1st July 2021 to 31st December 2021. Methodology: Eighty hypertensive patients within the age group of 25-65 years were enrolled. A 5-cc blood was withdrawn from each study patient for analysis of their complete lipid profile including triglycerides, cholesterol, low density lipoproteins, high density lipoproteins as well as for hematological parameters analysis which included red blood cells, white blood cells hematocrits, hemoglobin, red blood cell indices and platelets. Result: The mean age of the patients was 51.89±12.47 years. There were 45 males and 35 females in this study. Obesity was more common in hypertensive women than men. Lipid profile except high density lipoproteins was significantly higher in patients with uncontrolled blood pressure levels. High red blood cells were observed in both males and females with uncontrolled blood pressure while the platelets level decreased in uncontrolled BP males and increased in uncontrolled BP females in comparison to controlled males and females respectively. An increased level of hemoglobin and hematocrit in patients from both genders with uncontrolled blood pressure was observed. Conclusion: Disturbed lipid profile and hematological parameters imbalances are related with the hypertension Key words: Lipid profile, Hematological parameters, Hypertension

Antiplasmodial evaluation of aqueous extract of Blighia sapida K.D. Koenig leaves in Plasmodium berghei (NK65)-infected mice

BackgroundThe study was designed to screen aqueous extract of Bilghia sapida leaves for its phytochemical constituents, in vivo antiplasmodial activity and biochemical changes in Plasmodium berghei (NK65)-infected female mice. Phytochemical screening was done using standard methods. In the acute toxicity test, three groups of mice received 1000, 2000 and 3000 mg/Kg/day of the extract respectively, and were observed for signs of toxicity, especially mortality for 24 h. Forty-eight mice were assigned into six groups of eight animals each. The uninfected group A (control) was administered distilled water, while groups B, C, D, E and F were inoculated intraperitoneally with about 107 parasitized erythrocytes and received distilled water, chloroquine (5 mg/Kg/day), 125, 250 and 500 mg/Kg/day of extract, respectively. The antiplasmodial activity was evaluated using Peter’s 4 days suppressive test. Haematological indices, selected biochemical parameters and liver histology were evaluated.ResultsScreening revealed the presence of six phytochemicals in the aqueous extract of B. sapida leaves. Median lethal dose of the extract is > 5,000 mg/Kg/day. The aqueous extract of the leaves significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the level of parasitaemia dose-dependently with chemosuppression of 74.09% at 500 mg/Kg/day. The extract significantly (P < 0.05) prevented P. berghei infection-associated reduction in red blood cell indices. The significant (P < 0.05) P. berghei-induced alterations in liver function indices were improved in extract-treated mice. There were no visible lesions in the livers of animals that received 125 mg/Kg/day of extract.ConclusionThe aqueous extract of B. sapida leaves has in vivo antiplasmodial activity and justifies its folkloric use in malarial treatment.

Spectrum of hemoglobinopathies with hematological and biochemical profile: A five year experience from a tertiary care hospital.

Determination of hemoglobinopathies is significant for epidemiological studies. There is a need to identify burden of hemoglobinopathies at national level to lay down the foundation of appropriate screening and prevention programs. The present study aimed to evaluate the spectrum of hemoglobinopathies along with hematological and biochemical parameters in a tertiary care hospital. This retrospective study included results of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) test from July 2015 - May 2020 in the department of Hematology, Indus Hospital and Health Network, Karachi, Pakistan. Data of all patients collected for red blood cell (RBC) indices, serum iron profile, and vitamin B12 and red cell folate levels. Diagnosis of hemoglobinopathies was done by an automatic analyzer ADAMS A1C Model No. HA-8180T Arkray/Japan. Among 2422 participants, hemoglobinopathy observed in 14.5% (n=352). Beta thalassemia trait is observed as the most common hemoglobinopathy (6.4%). Severe anemia (Hb=5.1-5.5 g/dl) found in beta thalassemia major (BTM) and HbE disease. Red cell parameters showed significant association with different types of hemoglobinopathies. Mean ferritin level was high in E-beta thalassemia (687.8±591.9) followed by sickle cell disease (615.7±543.5). Apparently, overall frequency is static however, results of this study are not applicable to general population due to sample bias. Moreover, true figures are difficult to identify due to high incidence of iron deficiency anemia that masks the diagnosis by conventional techniques. Molecular characterization by DNA analysis is the most reliable tool of diagnosis. However, this method is not widely available in our country due to lack of expertise and cost issues.

Effects of low-level environmental mercury on thyroid cancer risk and red blood cell indices among residents living near national industrial complexes in South Korea: A population-based cohort study

Effects of low-level environmental mercury on thyroid cancer risk and red blood cell indices among residents living near national industrial complexes in South Korea: A population-based cohort study

A nomogram incorporating red blood cell indices to predict post-stroke cognitive impairment in the intracerebral hemorrhage population.

BackgroundPost-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) plagues 20–80% of stroke survivors worldwide. There is a lack of an easy and effective scoring tool to predict the risk of PSCI in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients. We aimed to develop a risk prediction model incorporating red blood cell (RBC) indices to identify ICH populations at risk of PSCI.MethodsPatients diagnosed with ICH at the stroke center were consecutively enrolled in the study as part of the development cohort from July 2017 to December 2018, and of the validation cohort from July 2019 to February 2020. Univariable and multivariable analyses were applied in the development cohort to screen the patients for PSCI risk factors. Then, a nomogram based on RBC indices and other risk factors was developed and validated to evaluate its performance in predicting PSCI occurrence.ResultsA total of 123 patients were enrolled in the development cohort, of which 69 (56.1%) were identified as PSCI, while 38 (63.3%) of 60 patients in the validation cohort were identified as PSCI. According to the multivariate analysis, seven independent risk factors, including three RBC indices (hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, RBC distribution width), as well as age, education level, hematoma volume, and dominant-hemisphere hemorrhage were incorporated into the model. The nomogram incorporating RBC indices displayed good discrimination and calibration. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.940 for the development cohort and 0.914 for the validation cohort. Decision curve analysis and clinical impact curve showed that the nomogram was clinically useful.ConclusionRBC indices are independent and important predictors of PSCI. A nomogram incorporating RBC indices can be used as a reasonable and reliable graphic tool to help clinicians identify high cognition impairment-risk patients and adjust individualized therapy.

Genetic predisposition to blood cell indices in relation to severe COVID-19.

Despite considerable variation in disease manifestations observed among coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the risk factors predicting disease severity remain elusive. Recent studies suggest that peripheral blood cells play a pivotal role in COVID‐19 pathogenesis. Here, we applied two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to evaluate the potential causal contributions of blood cell indices variation to COVID‐19 severity, using single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as instrumental variables for 17 indices from the UK Biobank and INTERVAL genome‐wide association studies (N = 173 480). Data on the associations between the SNPs and very severe respiratory confirmed COVID‐19 were obtained from the COVID‐19 host genetics initiative (N = 8779/1 001 875). We observed significant negative association between hematocrit (HCT; odds ratio, OR = 0.775, 95% confidence interval, CI = 0.635–0.915, p = 3.48E−04) or red blood cell count (OR = 0.830, 95% CI = 0.728–0.932, p = 2.19E−03) and very severe respiratory confirmed COVID‐19, as well as nominal negative association of hemoglobin concentration (OR = 0.808, 95% CI = 0.673–0.943, p = 3.95E−03) with very severe respiratory confirmed COVID‐19 (no effect survived multiple correction). In conclusion, the MR study supports a protective effect of high HCT and red blood cell count from very severe respiratory confirmed COVID‐19, suggesting potential strategies to ameliorate/treat clinical conditions in very severe respiratory confirmed COVID‐19.

Evaluation of the Discrimination between Beta-Thalassemia Trait and Iron Deficiency Anemia Using Different Indexes

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and beta-thalassemia trait (BTT) are the most common types of microcytic hypochromic anemias. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability of different RBC indices for discrimination between IDA and BTT in Sudanese patients. Methods and Results: This cross-sectional laboratory-based study was conducted among 200 patients (100 patients suffering from BTT and 100 from IDA) who attended the public health hospitals of Khartoum State (Sudan), from Jan 2021 to Feb 2022. The diagnosis of BTT was based on CBC and hemoglobin electrophoresis, and was confirmed by PCR. The diagnosis of IDA was based on complete blood count, reduced serum iron levels, and ferritin levels. Pregnant women, patients who had received a blood transfusion within three months of the study, and patients with thalassemia coexisting with IDA or other hemoglobinopathies were excluded from the study. A series of red blood cell indices were analyzed to differentiate IDA and BTT. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and Youden index (J) were calculated for each index. In BTT and IDA patients, mean values of Hb, hematocrit, and mean corpuscular volume were 10.9g/dL, 33.96%, 59.11fL, and 8.5g/dL, 26%, 68fL, respectively. All RBC indices were decreased in BTT and IDA. Mean RBC count was increased in BTT while showing normal values in IDA. In BTT patients, hemoglobin electrophoresis showed high HbA2 (6.4%) and HbF (1.95%) but a decreased HbA (78.2%). Conclusion: The best discrimination index according to J was Mentzer index (0.85), followed by Sidrah index (0.83), Ehsani index (0.81), RBC count (0.80), RDWI (0.79), Green and King index (0.76), MDHL (o.76), Srivastava index (o.76), and England and Fraser index (0.7). The lowest J was presented in Ricerca index (0.45), Shine and Lal index (0.01), and MCHD (0).

Serum Vitamin D level and its association with red blood cell indices in patients with periodontitis.

Research of late has brought to light a connect between Vitamin D and anemia. The level of 25hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) D) is decreased in periodontitis subjects as against subjects without periodontitis and this reduced level could be related to more risk for anemia in periodontitis patients. This study aimed to evaluate the serum 25(OH) D levels and red blood cell indices in patients affected by generalized Stage III Grade B periodontitis and healthy controls and to assess the association between level of Vitamin D and red cell indices in periodontitis patients. The subjects were categorized into (i) case and (ii) control group of 30 each. Clinical parameters including oral hygiene index simplified, mean ratio of sites that bled on probing, gingival index, probing pocket depth, and the clinical attachment loss were assessed in both the groups. Subjects' blood samples (venous) were taken for the biochemical analysis. In contradiction to healthy subjects, periodontitis subjects had significantly diminished 25(OH) D levels, hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). 25(OH) D was moderately correlated with MCHC (r = 0.53) and it was statistically significant (P = 0.002). Periodontitis impacts Vitamin D status which further causes anemia. It suggests that effective management of periodontitis can help maintain sufficient Vitamin D status and may be vital in preventing anemia.

Magnitude and morphological types of anemia differ by age among under five children: A facility-based study

BackgroundWorld Health Organization recently acknowledged the proportion of anemia attributable to iron deficiency among under-five children could be lower than the previously assumed 50%. Ethiopia reported 8.6% and 12.3% prevalence of iron deficiency anemia by serum ferritin and soluble transferrin receptor respectively. However, evidence generated from large samples on the magnitude of different types of anemias is limited. We aimed to determine the prevalence and morphological types of anemia in relation to age. MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted using electronic records of hemoglobin and red blood cell indices of 4739 children of 6–59 months of age who visited Hawassa University Comprehensive and Specialized Hospital from May 2017 to May 2019. Microcytic hypochromic morphology combined with high red cell distribution width was used to estimate the prevalence of iron deficiency. ResultsAbout 44.7% of the children were anemic. Anemia affected 6–23 months old children (53.1%) more than 24–59 (37.2%) months (p < 0.001) with no difference among boys and girls. Iron deficiency and iron-deficiency anemia, as explained by microcytic hypochromic morphology with high red cell distribution width combined model, were estimated to be 38.6% and 24.1%, respectively. About 54% of anemic children had iron deficiency which was higher among 6–23 months (63.5%) than 24–59 months (41.8%) (P < 0.001; X2 = 98.883). Regardless of anemia status, iron deficiency was two-fold higher among 6–23 months old children than 24–59 months of age. On the contrary, normocytic normochromic anemia affected significantly 24–59 months old children (23.1%) compared to 6–23 months. Less than 6% of the total anemia was macrocytic showing no significant relation with age. About 96% of macrocytic anemia was coupled with high red cell distribution width, indicating folate and vitamin B12 deficiency. ConclusionsMicrocytic hypochromic anemia with high red cell distribution width was the most prevalent type affecting primarily under two children. Normocytic normochromic anemia was significant among 24–59 months while macrocytic anemia had no age-related pattern. An in-depth study of causes of anemia other than iron deficiency particularly among 24–59 months children is essential.

Ferritin Increase in Hemochromatosis Subjects After Discontinuing Their Regular Maintenance Treatment: A Longitudinal Analysis Performed During the COVID-19 Imposed Hospital Lockdown.

Ferritin Increase in Hemochromatosis Subjects After Discontinuing Their Regular Maintenance Treatment: A Longitudinal Analysis Performed During the COVID-19 Imposed Hospital Lockdown.

Impact of occupational exposure to petroleum products on coagulation and white blood cell indices of Petrol station attendants in Nnewi metropolis, Nigeria.

Petroleum products are complex mixture of hydrocarbon compounds that is easily vaporized during handling. Occupational exposure to petroleum product fumes has become a major public health concern especially in developing countries where adequate protective measures are elusive. These fumes are known to be toxic and can cause abnormal alterations in the functioning of many vital organs. This was a comparative cross-sectional study designed to assess the impact of occupational exposure to petroleum products on the Prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time and white blood cell indices of petrol station attendants (PSAs) in Nnewi metropolis. A total of 100 subjects were recruited comprising 50 petrol station attendants and 50 control subjects. Blood sample was collected and used to assay for the prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and white blood cell parameters. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. The Prothrombin time was significantly shorter in the Petrol station attendants than that of the control group (P=0.004), while the activated partial thromboplastin time was significantly longer in the petrol station attendants than the control group (P&lt;0.001). The monocytes count was also significantly higher in petrol station attendants than the controls (P=0.009). Also among the petrol station attendants, the males had significantly longer PT, and APTT values compared to their female counterparts (P=0.008 and 0.006 respectively). Occupational exposure to petroleum products has a detectable impact on coagulation parameters (shorter PT and longer APTT values) which makes it needful that the petrol station workers should be provided with appropriate personal protective equipment to minimize exposure.

Hematological and Biochemical changes in Schistosoma mansoni infected patients at Haik Primary Hospital, North-East Ethiopia: A comparative cross-sectional study.

Schistosomes are blood dwelling parasites that affect more than 260 million people globally, and over 800 million people are at risk of infection in 74 countries. It causes acute and chronic debilitating diseases. The parasite is reported to alter the hematological and biochemical parameters in humans. Therefore, this study was aimed to evaluate the hematological and biochemical changes in S. mansoni infected adult patients compared to apparently healthy controls. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at Haik Primary Hospital from February to April 2021. One hundred and eighty study participants consisting of 90 S. mansoni infected patients and 90 apparently healthy controls were recruited using systematic random sampling method. Socio-demographic characteristics and other variables were collected using questionnaires. Stool sample was examined microscopically to detect S. mansoni infection using direct wet mount and Kato Katz technique. In apparently healthy controls, S. mansoni infection was rule out using direct wet mount and Kato Katz technique. Moreover, the intensity of S. mansoni infection was assessed using Kato Katz technique. Blood sample was collected from each study participant to determine the hematological and biochemical profiles. Data were entered in to Epi Data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 software. Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro Wilk normality tests were done to assess the distribution of continuous variables. The Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal Wallis H test was done to compare the differences among nonnormally distributed variables between S. mansoni infected patients and healthy controls. P-values <0.05 at 95%CI were considered as statistically significant. The mean age (SD) of S. mansoni infected patients and apparently healthy controls was 30.33 (±12.26) and 31.2 (±12.85) years old, respectively. The prevalence of anemia, and thrombocytopenia among S. mansoni infected patients were 23.3% and 26.7%, respectively. Erythrocytic sedimentation rate (ESR) was significantly elevated among S. mansoni infected patients than apparently healthy controls. The median white blood cell count, red blood cell count, red blood cell indices, and platelet indices were significantly lower among S. mansoni infected patients compared to apparently healthy controls (P<0.05). On the other hand, the median eosinophil count was significantly elevated among S. mansoni infected patients compared to apparently healthy controls (P<0.05). This study also showed significantly elevated values of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and direct bilirubin and lower albumin, total cholesterol and triglycerides among S. mansoni infected patients compared to apparently healthy controls. Kruskal Wallis H test showed a significant difference in the median of most hematological and biochemical parameters between moderate and heavy intensity of infection with light intensity of infection and apparently healthy controls. The findings of this study showed significantly altered hematological values and liver function tests among S. mansoni infected patients compared to apparently healthy controls. Therefore, screening of S. mansoni infected patients for various hematological and biochemical parameters and providing treatment to the underlying abnormalities is very crucial to avoid schistosomiasis associated morbidity and mortality.