A BREIF STUDY OF HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS IN COVID 19

Objectives: Ever since the World Health Organization announced COVID 19 infection a pandemic, continuous spread of the virus has affected all over the world. An understanding of the pathophysiology of this disease is necessary for its effective treatment. Laboratory investigations play an important role in the diagnosis as well as management of this infectious disease. Hematological parameters demonstrate alterations during the progression of COVID‑19 infection. Some are indicative of extremely poor clinical outcome. Hematological findings like leukopenia, lymphocytopenia, thrombocytopenia and coagulation‑related abnormalities are the most common manifestations. The aim of this study was to assess the pattern of alteration in hematological parameters with emphasis on total leukocyte count, absolute lymphocyte count and platelet count in COVID 19 positive patients. Material and methods:Patients suffering from COVID‑19 were categorized into two groups: Group I and Group II on the basis of severity of disease. Various hematological parameters of these patients such as neutrophil counts and white blood cell counts, d‑dimer levels, hemoglobin levels, fibrinogen and platelet counts were assessed. Results: Normal white blood cell and increased neutrophil count among COVID‑19 infected patients were seen. However, median values in Group II (P < 0.01) were found to show significantly higher values when compared to Group I. A significant (P < 0.01) decrease in lymphocytic counts and hemoglobin level were found among Group II patients. Platelet counts were in normal range in all COVID‑19 patients. Routine coagulation tests revealed increased fibrinogen (P < 0.01) and d‑dimer levels (P < 0.0001) in severe and critical patients. Conclusion: Analysis of hematological parameters in COVID‑19 patients may help in deciphering the clinical progression of patients suffering from COVID‑19 disease. Thus, regular monitoring of the hospitalized patients may help in planning better management of these cases.