A Study of Blood Cell Indices and Reticulocyte Count in cases of Anaemia in Females in Reproductive Age Group

Introduction: ANAEMIA, a global health problem mostly affects the women of reproductive age group; especially in developing countries1,2. Whereas severe anaemia is closely related to risk of mortality even mild anaemia carries health risks and causes morbidity. So much information can be obtained from examination of the stained blood film and haematological parameters obtained from cell counter; that it is possible to reach to a tentative diagnosis of the type of anaemia in 90% of patients and special tests may not be required.

Material and Methods: A study was carried out in 195 female patients in the age group of 16-50 yrs with haemoglobin values of less than 12gms%. E.D.T.A. blood samples were processed for haematological parameters on Electronic cell counter. Detailed smear examination and reticulocyte count was also done for each patient. The values of blood cell indices, RDW, reticulocyte count and haemoglobin were analyzed and corelated.

Results and Conclusions: The mean age of females in the study was 28.5 yrs, of which 63 Patients were of mild anaemia, 100 patients were in category of moderate anaemia and 32 patients were classified as severe anaemia cases. PCV, MCV, and MCH were significantly altered in all cases whereas MCHC did not show a significant relation. Marked RDW alterations were seen in severe anaemia. Reticulocyte count was increased in only 13 out of 195 cases. Using classification given by David Bessman et al 3; the predominant anaemia was nutritional; of which most cases were of iron deficiency with the rest being either Folate, Vitamin B12 deficiency mixed deficiency and chronic disease. Thus a detailed baseline study of haematological parameters can help us diagnose type of anaemia without availing the need of special tests.