Abstract

The recognition and characterization of haematological alterations accompanying viral infections could serve as tools for diagnosis, assist in disease prognosis and improve patient management. This paper aims to evaluate the haematological profile of parvovirus B19 antibody positive sickle cell patients, who are inherently prone to morbidity and mortality from parvovirus infection. A total of 200 sickle cell patients aged 1 to 18 years were recruited into the study. Screening for IgG and IgM parvovirus B19 antibodies were done using Elisa Kit (Institut Viron/serion GMbH Wurzbury, Germany). Complete blood count (PCV: Packed cell volume, WBC: White cell count, Platelet count) and reticulocyte count were carried out on all subjects using automated coulter machine. The mean Platelet count was significantly lower among IgM antibody seropositive children compared to those who are seronegative (p < 0.05). Children who were IgM antibody seropositive had a significantly higher mean reticulocyte count and index (P < 0.05). IgG seropositivity was not associated with any significant alteration in these haematological parameters. Haematological alterations could occur in sickle cell anaemia children during acute infection with the human parvovirus B19. It is recommended that clinicians caring for these patients be made more aware of the existence of this virus as well as the possible haematological alterations that could accompany it in our environment. Hospital laboratories should be encouraged to introduce diagnostic tests for parvovirus B19 infection.

Key words: Haematological profile, sickle cell anaemia, parvovirusB19, antibody status.