HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS IN COVID-19 PATIENTS: OUR EXPERIENCE\nIN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN THE NORTH EAST INDIA

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Covid-19 is a disease caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Distress syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Various changes\noccur in different haematological parameters in Covid-19 patients. Objective of the study is to evaluate the changes in primary haematological\nparameters and their signi\uf001cance in different groups of Covid-19 patients. METHODS: Laboratory data of randomly selected 100 laboratory\ncon\uf001rmed SARS-CoV-2 positive patients (Covid 19) in a tertiary care centre (Gauhati Medical College Hospital)were retrospectively collected.\nDemographic data and laboratory test results of the patients were analysed. RESULTS: Covid 19 is more common in above 50 years of age. It\nslightly more common in males. Leukocytosis, lymphopenia(P<0.008), thrombocytopenia, decreased haemoglobin levels(P<0.01), decrease red\nblood cell count(P<0.0001) were most commonly seen in above 50 age group(P<0.05). Monocytosis(P<0.006) was seen in below 50 years age\ngroups. CONCLUSION: Covid-19 is more common in above 50 years age group. Changes in haematological parameters are good index and can\nbe useful as indicators of disease progression and also helpful in disease prevention.