Is Mentzer Index A Reliable Diagnostic Screening Tool For Beta Thalassemia Trait?
Journal Title: IOSR Journal of Dental and Medical Sciences (IOSR-JDMS) - Year 2018, Vol 17, Issue 7
Abstract
Objective: Thalassemia trait is commonly seen in Indian population especially in certain communities like Sindhis, Kachchis, Gujaratis& Bengalis. The individuals having thalassemia trait usually have asymptomatic course &have mild microcytic hypochromic anemia. Since the other cause of microcytic anemia is iron deficiency, it is important to differentiate it from and thalassemia trait. Though the definitive diagnosis of thalassemia trait is possible only by Hb electrophoresis, there are certain blood indices which can differentiate between thalassemia trait and Iron deficiency anemia. Mentzer index is such an index. The aim of our study was to evaluate the reliability of Mentzer index in the differentiation of iron deficiency anemia and Thalassemia trait. Methods: This was a prospective study done on 100 patients of pediatric age group of which 60 had iron deficiency anemia and 40 had thalassemia trait. Only those patients who were found to be having iron deficiency anemia by iron studies and patients of thalassemia trait who had been diagnosed by Hb electrophoresis were included in this study. Those patients who had received blood transfusion within 3 months of study were excluded .Mentzer index of all the patients were calculated and the results were analysed. Result: Mentzer index of equal to or more than 13 ( ≥ 13) indicating iron deficiency anemia and less than 13 indicating thalassemia was found to be reliable. Conclusion: Iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia have different effects on blood indices. In resource poor and developing countries like that of India, it can be used as screening tool. In doubtful cases the diagnosis can be confirmed by Hb Electrophoresis.
Authors and Affiliations
Dr. Shreya Bose, Dr. Sabiha Maimoon
Keywords
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- EP ID EP377320
- DOI 10.9790/0853-1707060711.
- Views 70
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