Study on clinical and haematological profile of pancytopenia with special reference to bone marrow picture

Pradeep G. S.; Rohith C.

doi:10.18203/2349-3933.ijam20263718

Authors

Pradeep G. S. Department of Medicine, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka, India https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7693-8053
Rohith C. Department of Medicine, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3933.ijam20263718

Keywords:

Pancytopenia, Megaloblastic anemia, Bone marrow examination, Vitamin B12 deficiency, Hypersplenism

Abstract

Background: Pancytopenia is a hematological condition characterized by the simultaneous reduction of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It represents a manifestation of various underlying disorders, ranging from nutritional deficiencies to hematological malignancies. Understanding the clinical and hematological profile, especially bone marrow morphology, is critical for diagnosis and management.

Methods: An observational study was conducted over 18 months at the Department of Medicine, K R Hospital, Mysuru, enrolling 35 adult patients diagnosed with pancytopenia. Detailed clinical history, physical examination, complete blood count, peripheral smear, serum vitamin B12 and folate levels, and bone marrow aspiration and biopsy were performed. Additional investigations were conducted as clinically indicated. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.

Results: The study population comprised 54.3% males and 45.7% females, with the majority aged between 31-40 years. The most common presenting symptom was easy fatigability (94.3%). Pallor was observed in all patients, with splenomegaly present in 51.4%. Hematological analysis revealed severe anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Peripheral smear predominantly showed macrocytic anemia (54.3%). Bone marrow examination revealed hypercellularity in 74.3% of cases. Megaloblastic anemia was the leading cause of pancytopenia (48.6%), followed by hypersplenism (14.3%) and aplastic anemia (11.4%).

Conclusions: Megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency is the predominant cause of pancytopenia in this cohort, emphasizing the need for early nutritional assessment and intervention. Bone marrow evaluation remains a pivotal diagnostic tool, aiding in the identification of diverse etiologies and guiding appropriate management.

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