Study of haemogram in hiv positive patientsand its correlation with cd4 count

Introduction: HIV/AIDS is viewed as a pandemic affecting nearly all countries of the world. Haematologic abnormalities are among the most common complications of HIV infection. Aims and Objectives: Present study was aimed at evaluating the haemogram in HIV positive patients and its correlation with CD4 count. Materials and Methods: The present study was an observational study carried out in a tertiary care center during period of 12 months from January 2016 to December 2016 after the approval of Institutional Ethics Committee. All the pre ART HIV positive newly diagnosed patients without any gender preference attending ART center were included. However children below 15 years, patients with previously known haematologic disorders, pregnant and lactating women were excluded. A complete blood count on 3 part differential automated cell counter, peripheral smear examination and CD4 count on BD FACS flow cytometer was done. Results: Females outnumbered males. Majority (84.54%) of the cases had anaemia. Leucopenia was found in 13.63% and thrombocytopenia in 8.18% of cases. Total leukocyte count was in correlation with CD4 count but the occurrence of anemia and thrombocytopenia was independent of the increase or decrease in the CD4 count. Conclusion: Hematologic abnormalities like anemia and thrombocytopenia have also been reported to occur in early stages of HIV infection. Hence recognising these haematological alterations and treating them at the earliest is very important in order to reduce morbidity and mortality of patients.