Analysis of Haematological Parameters and Peripheral Smear findings of COVID- 19 Patient’s Blood Sample

Abstract

Introduction: Lymphopenia is an important finding in COVID-19 is a systemic infection which can help to predict the prognosis. The ratio of neutrophils to lymphocytes ratio,lymphopenia andthrombocytopenia can help to determine the severity of an incident. Severe thrombocytopenia can lead to potentially fatal consequences in the form of DIC. Objectives: To know the haematological parameters and peripheral smear findings in blood samples of COVID -19 patients and their relation with severity of infection. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted at Department of Pathology, Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences, Hassan, Karnataka. 12288 confirmed cases from Covid -19 infection from June 2020 to May 2021, were evaluated in detail for complete blood count analysis by Cell Dyn Rubyand peripheral smear study.Findings were noted and correlated with severity of infection. Results: In the present study from asymptomatic cases to critical cases, there was gradual increase in leucocytes count, along with neutrophilia,absolute neutrophils count, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and gradual decrease in lymphocytes, absolute lymphocyte count andplatelets. In our study, peripheral smear findings showed toxic granules along with other reactive changes in neutrophils. Lymphopenia worsens as the disease progresses to a more advanced state.Individual proper managementand the disease's outcome can be monitored effectively by noting above discussed haematological parameters in COVID-19 infection.