Role of Haemogram Parameters and RBC Indices in Screening and Diagnosis of Beta-Thalassemia Trait in Microcytic, Hypochromic Indian Children

AIM: To assess the validity and discrimination power of haemogram parameters and RBC indices in diagnosing βTT in microcytic, hypochromic anaemia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective study was conducted on the microcytic, hypochromic anaemic OPD and indoor admitted patients in Umaid Hospital, Jodhpur measured with electronic cell counter (Sysmex K800). HbA2 was calculated on the cohort by the Hb variant [BioRad, USA] system by using the HPLC technique. The Hb, MCV, MCH, TRBC and four RBC indices ,Mentzer, Srivastava, Shine and Lal and England and Frazer were assessed for the positives on the basis of their individual ROC cut offs obtained in the study. RESULTS: Out of 848 microcytic, hypochromic anaemic patients, 185 were diagnosed thalassemia minor. The various haemogram parameters and RBC indices were then analysed . CONCLUSION: MCV≤59.9 fL and Mentzer Index≤12.45 were the best discriminating indices obtained with high sensitivity, NPV, YI and ARUC. No test or parameter though, had a 100 % sensitivity or specificity.