Association between Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Hematological Alterations: A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Background: Pulmonary tuberculosis remains a significant public health challenge in India, with various systemic manifestations including hematological abnormalities. Understanding these alterations can aid in early diagnosis and management of the disease.

Objectives: To evaluate the hematological alterations in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and compare them with healthy controls at a tertiary care hospital in Haryana, India.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted at Adesh Medical College & Hospital, Mohri, Haryana, from October 2018 to October 2019. Sixty confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis patients (cases) and sixty age- and sex-matched healthy individuals (controls) were enrolled. Complete blood count parameters, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and other hematological indices were measured and compared between groups. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests.

Results: Significant hematological alterations were observed in tuberculosis patients compared to controls. Anemia was present in 68.3% of cases versus 15.0% of controls (p<0.001). Mean hemoglobin levels were significantly lower in cases (10.2±1.8 g/dL) compared to controls (13.1±1.4 g/dL). Elevated ESR (>20 mm/hr) was found in 83.3% of cases. Leukocytosis and lymphopenia were noted in 45.0% and 53.3% of cases respectively.

Conclusions: Pulmonary tuberculosis is associated with significant hematological alterations, particularly anemia, elevated ESR, and lymphopenia. Routine hematological evaluation can serve as an important adjunct in the diagnosis and monitoring of pulmonary tuberculosis patients.