Analysis of Hematological Profiles in Hepatitis B Patients; Understanding the Interplay Between Viral Infections and Blood Parameters
Abstract
Areeba Ahsan, Muhammad Daoud Tariq, Mubashir Zafar, Hafiz Muhammad Hamza, Fatima Kaleem, Muhammad Muiz Malik and Ayaz Ahmed Awan
Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a worldwide health concern, associated with heightened risks of liver failure, hepatic dysregulation, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite progress in developed nations, underdeveloped regions face challenges like increased chronic hepatitis B frequency, limited access to prevention measures, and insufficient infection control. This study explores the hematological profiles of individuals with HBV to enhance diagnostic, prognostic, and treatment strategies.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study at Fauji Foundation Hospital analyzed 85 HBV-positive and 85 control individuals. Ethical approval was obtained, and HBV serological markers were assessed. Hematological parameters were measured using an automated analyzer, and NLR and PLR were calculated. Software for statistical analysis, SPSS version 26, was used.
Results: Statistical analysis unveiled significant differences in key hematological parameters between hepatitis B virus (HBV) positive individuals and the control group. HBV-infected subjects exhibited lower white blood cell counts (7.75 x 10^9/L vs. 8.878 x 10^9/L, p = 0.013) and platelet counts (228.38 x 10^9/L vs. 264.34 x 10^9/L, p = 0.007), indicating potential impacts on immune response and coagulation. Moreover, the HBV group demonstrated an elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (2.27 vs. 1.74, p = 0.0002) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) (104.3 vs. 115.4, p = 0.039), indicative of a pro-inflammatory state. Lymphocyte percentages were significantly lower in the HBV group (26.756% vs. 32.535%, p = 0.0003), suggesting compromised immune function.
These findings highlight the hematological impact of HBV infection, emphasizing its potential clinical implications for diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Conclusion: This study illuminates the complex interaction between hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and hematological parameters. The observed deviations in key blood markers underscore the impact of HBV on immune function and coagulation. Reduced platelet and white blood cell counts suggest heightened susceptibility to complications. Alterations in the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) highlight a pro-inflammatory state, offering valuable insights for prognosis. These findings, while contributing to diagnostic advancements, underscore the importance of considering hematological parameters in the comprehensive management of HBV-infected individuals. Despite study limitations, including restricted hospital access and potential biases, the results provide a foundation for refining diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, advancing our understanding of HBV-related pathophysiology.