A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF PROFILE OF PANCYTOPENIA PATIENTS PRESENTING TO A TERTIARY HEALTH CARE CENTRE IN SOUTH INDIA

Abstract

Introduction: Pancytopenia is a commonly encountered haematological condition. It is not a disease but the manifestation of underlying pathology which may be malignant or non-malignant. The etiology of pancytopenia differs between age groups, and these differences are due to diverse geographical area where the study is conducted, genetic variations, the nutritional condition of children enrolled, the prevalence of various infections and exposure to myelotoxic drugs, among other factors. As a result, knowing the actual cause of pancytopenia is essential for determining treatment and prognosis. The aim of this study was to find the etiopathogenesis, common presenting symptoms, clinical signs and laboratory observations of pancytopenia in clinical practice, the frequency, severity and causes based on genetic, geographic, nutritional, and socioeconomic factors.

Materials & Methods: This was a retrospective observational study conducted over a period of 4 months which included 100 patients who were diagnosed as pancytopenia. Age, sex, presenting symptoms, clinical signs and relevant laboratory investigations like Peripheral smear, bone marrow aspiration and bone marrow biopsy reports were analysed and presented in the form of tables and descriptive form.

Results:  Among the 100 individuals evaluated for pancytopenia, the largest proportion fell within the 41–50-year age range (24%). Male-to-female ratio was around 1.2:1. Fatigue, fever, weakness and body pain were the most common symptoms. Pallor & Splenomegaly are the most common clinical signs. Erythroid hyperplasia, Aplastic Anemia and Acute Leukemia were the most common causes of Pancytopenia in this study.

Conclusion: The findings of this study emphasize that many causes of pancytopenia are potentially treatable if identified at an early stage. By recognizing the common etiological patterns in pancytopenia within the studied population can aid clinicians in redirecting and prioritizing investigations and initiating timely & targeted therapy. The study also highlights the need for strengthening primary healthcare and awareness to facilitate early referral and intervention.