Haematological manifestations of COVID 19 and their prognostic significance- A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

SARS-CoV2 started as pneumonia of unknown aetiology in Wuhan, China. Considered a respiratory pathogen primarily initially, COVID 19 is now identified as a systemic infection with significant effects on the hematopoietic system. Lymphopenia, peak platelet/ lymphocyte ratio and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio are some of the parameters that could be considered as prognostic markers of the disease. Disseminated intravascular coagulation, along with elevated D-dimer levels, are commonly encountered and are usually associated with a worsening clinical picture. IL-6, C reactive protein and Lactate Dehydrogenase with high serum prolactin and serum ferritin levels project a dismal outcome. Venous thromboembolism occurs in both ambulatory and bedridden patients making thromboprophylaxis with LMWH popular.  To correlate haematological parameters like lymphopenia, deranged coagulation profile and elevated d- dimer levels with the outcome (recovery or death) of the patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. In this prospective cross-sectional study, data will be gathered from patients found to be positive for COVID 19 with the duration of the study being four months. Lymphopenia, elevated D-dimer levels and deranged coagulation profile are expected in patients with COVID-19. Haematological parameter like lymphopenia raised D-dimer levels, and deranged coagulation profile are associated with poor prognosis in COVID 19.