Hematological Parameters in HIV Patients: Association with CD4 Count

Abstract

Background: Around 2.1 million people are currently living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in India. Hematological parameters have been proposed as alternative markers of HIV infection in areas with limited resources. This study aimed to describe hematological parameters in patients with HIV infection and to determine their association with CD4 cell counts. Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed 100 HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Their blood samples were collected to measure complete blood count (CBC) and CD4 count. Patients with known hematological disorders, critically ill patients, and those not willing to give informed consent were excluded. The Chi-square test was used to find the association between hematological parameters and CD4 counts. Results: Most patients with HIV infection had anemia (85%), followed by thrombocytopenia (42%) and neutropenia (36%). There was a statistically significant association between the number of patients having anemia and CD4 cell counts. Conclusion: Hematological changes are common in HIV patients. Hematological parameters should be routinely monitored and managed to reduce morbidity. Also, patients with unexplained low blood counts should be screened for underlying HIV infection.