HEMATOLOGICAL PROFILE IN NEONATES-A HOSPITAL BASED STUDY

Neonatal hematology is a complex subspecialty of pediatric hematology, combining the unique aspects of maternal/fetal relationship, the delicate balance of coagulation factors and the distinctive physiologic condition of the newborn period. There are important hematological differences between the newborn, older child and adult. A careful assessment of the blood elements is often the first step in assessment of hematologic function and diagnosis of hematological disorders. Most of routine hematological parameters provide us with useful information that can help in diagnosing hematological disorders. The study was conducted in Department of Pathology and Department of Pediatrics, ASCOMS over a period of one year i.e from 1st November 2013 to 31st October 2014. All neonates, admitted in the pediatric ward during this period were included for the study. For each patient following lab. tests were carried out which include hemoglobin estimation, total leucocyte count (TLC), differential leucocyte count(DLC), platelet count, hematocrit (PCV), mean corpuscular volume(MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin(MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration(MCHC), reticulocyte count and whenever required coagulation tests (Prothrombin time and Activated partial thromboplastin time), sickling test (Metabisulfite slide test), glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase(G6PD) and C reactive protein(CRP) were conducted. The aim of the study was to know the hematological profile of neonates, to ascertain the relative frequency of common hematological disorders and to draw clinico pathological correlations. Considering the variability of presentation and confounding factors, it is worthwhile to study hematological parameters in neonates to know the pattern of hematological diseases in this geographical area. This information can help us in better patient management.