Hematological Indices in COVID-19 Patients with Rhinosinusitis Mucormycosis

Introduction

Rhinosinusitis mucormycosis (RM) is an invasive opportunistic fungal infection, especially among COVID-19 patients. The current study aimed to assess the peripheral blood hematological disorders of COVID-19 patients-associated RM.

Materials and Methods

During ten month, in two COVID-19 centers in Mashhad, Iran, from June 2021 to March 2022, eighty-three patients suspected of COVID-19 with rhinosinusitis or rhino-orbital mucormycosis participated in this study. The hematological indices of these patients were measured by independent sample T-test or Mann-Whitney test for quantitative data, and the qualitative variables were analyzed using Chi-square or Fisher's exact test in SPSS version 20 at a significance level of 0.05.

Results

Of the COVID-19 patients, 40 (48.2%) were affected by RM, and leukocytosis due to neutrophilia was observed in 30% of them. Leukocyte counts were normal in 10 (25%) patients, but 1 (2.5%) and 3 (7.5%) had leukopenia and lymphopenia, respectively. Leukocytosis plus lymphopenia was observed in 7 (17.5%) patients. Also, the synchronicity of leukopenia and lymphopenia was seen in 5 (12.5%) patients. Leukopenia, lymphopenia, and neutropenia have occurred concurrently in 2 (5%) patients. The complete blood count (CBC) showed that RBCs, hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), MCH, MCHC, platelet (PLT), and lymphocytes decreased while neutrophils increased.

Conclusion

Among the hematological parameters, leukocytosis due to neutrophilia and reduction in Hb, HCT, and PLT are more dominant factors in COVID-19 patients-associated RM.

Predictors of Comorbidity of Malaria and Septicemia in Children Living in Malaria-Endemic Communities in Nigeria

PURPOSE

The study attempted to identify possible overlap between serum cell-reactive proteins (C-rp) and hematological indices as predictors of comorbidity of malaria and septicemia among children attending primary healthcare facilities in Ilorin, Nigeria.

METHODS

One hundred and ninety-three children (aged: ≤ 1-15 years) presenting with symptoms suggestive of malaria were enrolled. Blood specimens were collected and screened for: Romanowsky, culture, serum C-RP and hematological indices.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifteen (59.6%) children had Plasmodium falciparum infections (female 69.0% and male 34.1%). Septicemia was common among 52 (26.9%), but malaria and septicemia co-infection was 42 (36.5%). C-rp levels were low (< 10 mg/L) in 41 (35.7%, OR 4.594, CI 2.463-8.571) and high (> 10 mg/L) in 74 (64.3%, OR 2.519, CI 1.681-3.775) among the malaria positives (p < 0.05). Children with low C-rp, 8 (15.4%, OR 9.413, CI 4.116-21.531) were positive for septicemia and high C-RP 44 (84.6%, OR 1.694, CI 1.396-2.055), but without malaria, respectively. Similarly, increased C-rp levels were significantly associated with clinical malaria; > 10,000 parasites/μL (OR 1.486, CI 1.076-2.054, P < 0.001). Malaria-positive versus negative showed that PCV, C-rp, hemoglobin, platelet, WBC, and neutrophil were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Two bacteria species were identified, viz; Staphylococcus aureus 39 (54.9%) and Escherichia coli 32 (45.1%). The trade-off between sensitivity and specificity occurred at 16.475 cut-off using C-rp and degree of malaria severity as the standard for AUROC.

CONCLUSION

C-rp are inflammatory markers, though non-specificity may be associated with malaria prognosis and severity during malaria-septicemia co-infection.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte Ratio and Platelet-to-lymphocyte Ratio in the Patients with Euthyroid Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

Objective

This study aimed to compare the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) values in patients with euthyroid Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) with healthy control subjects.

Methods

This was a single-center, retrospective, cross-sectional study conducted on obese patients aged 18 years and over. The medical records of patients who presented with complaints of being overweight at the obesity clinic between April 2017 and May 2019 were examined. Patients and healthy individuals were included in the study consecutively until the sample sizes reached saturation. Patients with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic inflammatory disease, and malignancy were excluded from the study. The patients' anthropometric measurements, smoking status, blood examination, and thyroid ultrasounds were evaluated. The difference in means between the groups was calculated using the Mann-Whitney U test.

Results

The study included 179 participants, consisting of 93 patients and 86 healthy controls. The mean age was 46.6±14.1 years, with most females (91.6%). Although the NLR and PLR values in patients were higher than those in the control group, the difference did not reach statistical significance (p=0.427 and p=0.089, respectively). Furthermore, no significant difference was observed in NLR (p=0.191) and PLR (p=0.668) values between levothyroxine-treated and untreated patients. Correlation analysis revealed weak positive associations between C-reactive protein and thyroid peroxidase antibodies (p<0.05), neutrophils (p<0.01), platelets (p<0.01), and NLR (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest that NLR and PLR may not serve as effective indicators of systemic inflammation in patients with euthyroid HT, nor do they adequately assess the impact of levothyroxine usage on systemic inflammation.

Dietary effects of procyanidin and Bio-Aqua® on hematological and immune indices of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

The role of immunostimulants in reducing diseases and enhancing fish performance has been proven in various studies. In this study, the effects of antioxidant procyanidin and commercial probiotic Bio-Aqua® on some hematological and immune indices of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were investigated. A total number of 525 fingerlings in seven treatments (each treatment in triplicates) with experimental diets, including (1) commercial food without supplements (CTL), (2) 400 mg procyanidin kg-1 feed (PC400) , (3) 800 mg procyanidin kg-1 feed (PC800), (4) 0.50% probiotic diet (PB0.5), (5) 1.00% probiotic diet (PB1), (6) probiotic and procianidin 0.50% and 800 mg kg-1 feed, respectively (PB0.5 + PC800) and (7) probiotic and procianidin 1.00% and 400 mg kg-1 feed, respectively, (PB1 + PC400) were fed for eight weeks. The results showed that the use of procyanidin alone did not have any significant effect on blood biochemistry and immune indices. However, the individual use of Bio-Aqua® probiotic could affect the hematological and immune indices of fish, except for monocyte, compared to the control and procyanidin treatments. However, the combined use of the supplements improved the hematological and immune indices of fish. It was concluded that the simultaneous dietary administration of procyanidin and probiotic Bio-Aqua® could improve the general health of rainbow trout.

The relationship between hematological indices as indicators of inflammation and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 status in newborns

BACKGROUND

There is still much unknown about the relationship between hematological parameters and vitamin D status in newborns. The aim of the study is to evaluate the relationship between 25(OH)D3 (vitamin D) status and new defined systemic inflammatory markers neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte to monocyte ratio (LMR), and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in newborns.

METHODS

One hundred newborns were enrolled in the study. Serum vitamin D status, below < 12 ng/mL (< 30 nmol/L) as deficient, 12-20 ng/mL (30-50 nmol/L) as insufficient, and > 20 ng/mL (> 50 nmol/L) was considered as sufficient.

RESULTS

Parallel to maternal and newborn vitamin D status were also statistically different between the groups (p < 0.05). Moreover, there was a statistically significant difference was found between the deficient, sufficient and insufficient groups in terms of newborn hemoglobin, neutrophil, monocytes, NLR, PLT, PLR and neutrophil to monocyte ratio (NMR) (p < 0.05, in all). There was also a positive correlation between maternal and newborn vitamin D status (r = 0.975, p = 0.000). The newborn NLR were negative correlated with newborn vitamin D status (r = -0.616, p = 0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that there may be potential new biomarkers to predict inflammation associated with the inflammatory state that may arise due to changes in NLR, LMR, and PLR in vitamin D deficiency in newborns. NLR and other hematologic indices may be non-invasive, simple, easily measurable, cost-effective markers of inflammation in newborns.

Do the diverse environments of Baltic coastal zone affect hematological and biochemical alterations in the blood of mute swans (Cygnus olor)?

Based on studies of the wintering population of mute swans in large urban agglomerations, it is possible to identify and infer the impact of environmental pollution in coastal regions near Baltic Sea on the physiological and biochemical changes in the blood of waterfowls. Hematological and biochemical changes in the blood in relation to chemical elements in their feathers are a useful tool for general ecophysiological conclusions. Hematological changes and blood chemistry in Mute Swan Cygnus olor is particularly environmentally dependent, therefore we examined hematological picture (red blood cells RBC, white blood cells WBC, heterophiles, eosinophils, basophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, hemoglobin, heterophile to lymphocyte ratio H/L, biochemical indicators (glucose, uric acid, total cholesterol, triglycerides, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, magnesium, total protein), stability of erythrocyte membranes, concentration of Ca, P, Mg in the blood, concentration of Al, Zn, Rh, Cu, Ru, Fe, Pb in feathers, in wintering population of 172 mute swans of different age (juvenile, adult) and gender, in three coastal types of areas of Southern Polish zone of Baltic Sea (Słupsk, Gdynia, Sopot). Percentage of changes in the morphological indices in the blood of mute swans with three independent characteristics (environment, sex, age) revealed that hemoglobin content exhibited the highest value (R² = 53.8%) in the analysis of morphological indices; the effect of RBC, WBC, and basophils was much lower (WBC > RBC > basophils). Male and female erythrocytes from the coastal of Gdynia were more fragile than those of birds from coasts of Sopot and Słupsk. We found that osmotic fragility is altered in juvenile swans from Słupsk area and males from Gdynia area. The consequence was a higher level of hemolyzed erythrocytes in their blood. The effect of type of environment, age-, and sex-related impact on hematological indices and biomarkers of biochemical alterations in the blood of swans and comparison of these data with bioaccumulation of chemical elements in feathers of swans inhabiting 3 types of environment of Baltic coastal zone show significant differences in the hematological and biochemical indices. Albumins and globulins maintain the blood cations balance, however, changes in their concentrations in the blood suggest an impact on physiological mechanisms and body condition of swans.

Red blood cell distribution width derivatives in alcohol-related liver cirrhosis and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

Looking for undiscovered blood markers of liver fibrosis and steatosis still remains an issue worth exploring. There are still plenty of unresolved issues related to the actual role of hematological indices as potential markers of liver function.

AIM

To study red blood cell distribution width (RDW), RDW-to-platelet ratio (RPR) and RDW-to-lymphocyte ratio (RLR) in alcohol-related liver cirrhosis (ALC) and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD).

METHODS

The study group was composed of 302 people: 142 patients with ALC and 92 with MAFLD; 68 persons were included as controls. RDW, RPR and RLR were measured in each person. Indirect and direct parameters of liver fibrosis were also assessed [aspartate transaminase to alkaline transaminase ratio, aspartate transaminase to platelet ratio index (APRI), fibrosis-4 (FIB-4), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase to platelet ratio (GPR), procollagen I carboxyterminal propeptide, procollagen III aminoterminal propeptide, transforming growth factor-α, platelet-derived growth factor AB, laminin]. MELD score in ALC patients and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) fibrosis score together with BARD score were obtained in the MAFLD group. The achieved results were compared to controls. Then a correlation between assessed markers was done. Diagnostic value of each investigated parameter and its suggested cut-off in the research group were evaluated with area under the curve (AUC).

RESULTS

RDW, RPR and RLR values turned out to be significantly higher in ALC and MAFLD groups compared to controls (ALC: P < 0.0001; NAFLD: P < 0.05, P < 0.0001 and P < 0.0001, respectively). RPR correlated positively with MELD score (P < 0.01) and indirect indices of liver fibrosis (FIB-4 and GPR; P < 0.0001) in ALC patients; negative correlations were found between PDGF-AB and both: RDW and RPR (P < 0.01 and P < 0.0001, respectively). RPR correlated positively with NAFLD fibrosis score and APRI (P < 0.0001) in the MAFLD group; a positive relationship was observed between RDW and FIB-4, too (P < 0.05). AUC values and suggested cut-offs for RDW, RPR and RLR in ALC patients were: 0.912 (> 14.2%), 0.965 (> 0.075) and 0.914 (> 8.684), respectively. AUC values and suggested cut-offs for RDW, RPR and RLR in MAFLD patients were: 0.606 (> 12.8%), 0.724 (> 0.047) and 0.691 (> 6.25), respectively.

CONCLUSION

RDW with its derivatives appear to be valuable diagnostic markers in patients with ALC. They can also be associated with a deterioration of liver function in this group.

Dynamic changes of hematological indices in oropharyngeal cancer patients treated with radiotherapy

BACKGROUND

Hematological indices assist in predicting clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

To explore changes of hematological indices on oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) patients received radiotherapy and their association with survival.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The white blood cell count (WBC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC), absolute lymphocyte count (ALC), hemoglobin (Hb), platelet (Plt), albumin (Alb), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) at baseline, 1-, 3-, 6- and 12-months follow-up were retrospectively collected. The trajectory of indices was described. A linear model with random effects was to describe indices' changing rate and trend. Univariable Cox analysis was to assess the correlation between indices and survival.

RESULTS

Of the 85 patients, WBC and ALC dropped during acute phase and gradually recovered, while NLR and PLR increased during acute phase and subsequently declined (all p < .01). Higher absolute value of nutritional indices (Alb and Hb) was associated with better prognosis (p < .05). In contrast, patients with higher absolute value or upward trend of inflammatory indices (ANC, Plt, NLR and PLR) had worse survival (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE

The short- and long-term changes of indices differed in OPSCC patients received radiotherapy, and absolute values and dynamic changes of indices had the potential to be prognostic factors.

Does nano-curcumin supplementation improve hematological indices in critically ill patients with sepsis? A randomized controlled clinical trial

Sepsis is the final common pathway to death for severe infectious diseases worldwide. The present trial aimed to investigate the effects of nano-curcumin supplementation on hematological indices in critically ill patients with sepsis. Fourteen ICU-admitted patients were randomly allocated into either nano-curcumin or placebo group for 10 days. The blood indices, serum levels of inflammatory biomarker and presepsin as well as nutrition status, and clinical outcomes were assessed before the intervention and on days 5 and 10. White blood cells, neutrophils, platelets, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and the levels of interleukin-8 significantly decreased in the nano-curcumin group compared to the placebo after 10 days of intervention (p = .024, p = .045, p = .017, p = .041, and p = .004, respectively). There was also a marginal meaningful decrease in serum presepsin levels in the intervention group compared to the placebo at the end of the study (p = .054). However, total lymphocyte count showed a significant increase in the nano-curcumin group compared to the placebo at the end-point (p = .04). No significant differences were found in the level of lymphocyte and the ratios of neutrophil/lymphocyte and platelet/lymphocyte between the study groups. Moreover, no significant between-group differences were observed for other study outcomes, post-intervention. Collectively, nano-curcumin may be a useful adjuvant therapy in critically ill patients with sepsis. However, further trials are suggested to examine the effects of nano-curcumin in the management of sepsis and its complications. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Curcumin (1,7-bis[4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl]-1,6-heptadiene-3,5- dione) or diferuloylmethane is widely used in medicine due to its several biological properties. Recent evidence has shown that curcumin possesses multiple pharmacological activities including immune-modulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial effects. In this study, it was observed that nano-curcumin at a dose of 160 mg for 10 days, without side effects, reduced some inflammatory factors and regulated the immune responses in sepsis patients. For the first time, this trial was conducted to determine the effect of nano-curcumin on hematological indices and the serum levels of presepsin and IL-8.

Hematological indices and abnormalities among patients with uncomplicated falciparum malaria in Kosti city of the White Nile state, Sudan: a comparative study

BACKGROUND

Hematological abnormalities are common features in falciparum malaria but vary among different populations across countries. Therefore, we compared hematological indices and abnormalities between Plasmodium falciparum-infected patients and malaria-negative subjects in Kosti city of the White Nile State, Sudan.

METHODS

A comparative, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Clinical Laboratory Unit of Kosti Teaching Hospital from June to December 2018. A total of 392 participants (192 P. falciparum-infected patients and 200 malaria-negative subjects) were recruited in the study. Hematological indices of hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets were measured, and their median values were statistically compared.

RESULTS

The majority of P. falciparum-infected patients (67.6%) showed a low-level parasitemia. The median values of Hb concentration, RBC count, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular Hb (MCH) and mean corpuscular Hb concentration (MCHC) were significantly lower in P. falciparum-infected patients, while the median red cell distribution width (RDW) was significantly higher in the patients compared to malaria-negative subjects. Anemia, low MCV, low MCH, low MCHC and high RDW were significantly associated with falciparum malaria, but parasitemia level was not significantly associated with anemia severity. The median total WBC count was non-significantly higher in P. falciparum-infected patients, with neutropenia being significantly associated with falciparum malaria. The median platelet count was significantly lower in P. falciparum-infected patients, with thrombocytopenia being significantly associated with falciparum malaria.

CONCLUSIONS

Falciparum malaria among patients in Kosti city of the White Nile State, Sudan is predominantly of low-level parasitemia. It is significantly associated with anemia, low MCV, low MCH, low MCHC, high RDW, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia. However, parasitemia level is not a significant predictor of anemia severity. On the other hand, leucopenia is not useful to predict falciparum malaria. Further large-scale studies in community and healthcare settings and inclusion of patients with complicated or severe malaria and those with high parasite densities are recommended.

Easily generated hematological biomarkers and prediction of placental abruption

OBJECTIVE

Placental abruption (PA) is associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Increasing evidence has shown an association between abruption and inflammation as well as utilization of hematological biomarkers to predict the later. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ration (PLR) taken early in pregnancy in predicting later occurrence of PA.

STUDY DESIGN

A nested case control study, which compared parturient with PA (cases) to parturient without PA (controls). Parturient were matched by hospitalization date and maternal age. Demographic, clinical, and obstetrical characteristics were retrieved. Hematological indices derived from complete blood count taken during the first trimester of pregnancy, specifically NLR and PLR were retrieved and compared between the groups. Mann-Whitney and T-test were performed for not normally and normally distributed continuous variables respectively, categorical variables were analyzed using Chi-Square or Fisher Exact test as appropriate.

RESULTS

The study comprised of 232 patients. Of these, 131 had suffered from PA and 131 without PA. Parturient who had PA has significantly higher rates of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, mean neutrophil, lymphocyte and platelet count did not differ between the groups. A comparison of NLR and PLR between the study groups yielded no significant differences.

CONCLUSION

NLR and PLR taken early in the course of pregnancy were not found associated with PA. Given the potentially severe consequences of PA, the biological plausibility and the readiness of these hematological markers, further investigation of this method with larger, prospective studies are needed.

Protease produced by Lactobacillus brevis enhanced nutritional values of African yam beans and demonstrated improvement in the growth and blood indices of albino rats

This study evaluates the nutritional values of African yam bean hydrolyzed with protease from Lactobacillus brevis and afterward assess its effect on the growth and blood parameters of albino rats. The nutritional compositions of AYB hydrolyzed with partially purified protease from L. brevis were determined by standard chemical methods. The protease-hydrolyzed AYB was thereafter formulated into feeds with different inclusion levels (20, 40 and 60%), which was used to feed albino rats for 27 days. After the feeding trial, the blood of anesthetized albino rats was collected using the cardiac puncture method, and the hematological parameters were determined by standard biochemical methods. The AYB hydrolyzed with partially purified protease had the highest percentage crude protein with a value of 31.2% when compared with boiled, soaked and boiled, and raw sample with the values of 20.9, 20.9 and 19.9%, respectively. The treatment of AYB with purified protease also resulted in an increase of vitamins and some essential amino acids when compared with unhydrolyzed AYB. The group of rats fed with 60% hydrolyzed AYB had the highest percentage average weight gain of approximately 144%, while the values recorded for the groups fed with commercial feed and unhydrolyzed AYB were approximately 86 and 101%, respectively. The hematological analysis revealed that the hemoglobin (Hb) and packed cell volume (PCV) of the group fed with 40% hydrolyzed AYB of 14 g/L and 38% respectively, were significantly higher than the rats fed with commercial feed with values of 10 g/L and 32%, respectively. Thus, enzyme-hydrolyzed AYB might be a suitable alternative to animal protein with good functional properties.

The Impact of Perinatal Cobalt Chloride Exposure on Extramedullary Erythropoiesis, Tissue Iron Levels, and Transferrin Receptor Expression in Mice

The objective of the present study was to elucidate the effect of perinatal cobalt chloride (CoCl₂) exposure on extramedullary erythropoiesis in suckling mice in relation to iron (Fe) content and transferrin receptor (TfR) expression. Pregnant ICR mice were subjected to a daily dose of 75 mg CoCl₂/kg body weight 2-3 days prior and 18 days after delivery. Co exposure significantly increased erythrocyte count (RBC), and reduced the erythrocytic parameters mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) in the offspring. Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) was decreased while bilirubin values were ~ 1.2-fold higher in the metal-exposed mice. Perinatal CoCl₂ treatment also induced pathohistological changes in target organs (spleen, liver, and kidneys) as altered organ weight indices, leukocyte infiltration, abundant Kupffer cells in the liver, increased mesangial cellularity, and reduced capsular space in the kidney. CoCl₂ administration induced significant 68-, 3.8-, 41.3-, and 162-fold increase of Co content in the kidney, spleen, liver, and RBC, respectively. Fe content in the target organs of CoCl₂-treated mice was also significantly elevated. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that TfR1 was well expressed in the renal tubules, hepatocytes, the red pulp, and marginal zone of white pulp in the spleen. TfR2 showed similar expression pattern, but its expression was stronger in the spleen and liver samples of Co-treated mice compared with that of the untreated controls. The results demonstrate that exposure to CoCl₂ during late pregnancy and early postnatal period affects body and organ weights and alters hematological and biochemical parameters, iron content, and TfR expression in target organs.

Red Blood Cell Variables in Children and Adolescents regarding the Age and Sex

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the basic red blood cell variables and hematological indices in children and adolescents and analyze the differences regarding age and sex.

METHODS

Overall, 320 young participants, age 8 to 18 yr, were enrolled at Laboratory of Sport's Medicine, Medical Faculty, Skopje, Macedonia in 2016. Capillary blood samples were drawn and following hematologic parameters were measured: the red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), hematocrit level (Hct) and hematological indexes: mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean hemoglobin concentration (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and red cell distribution width (RDW).

RESULTS

RBC variables in male group showed high statistical level of significance between age different groups (P=0.001) for all studied parameters except MCHC (P=0.423) and RDW (P=0.174). ANOVA test and multivariate tests in female group showed that there was no significant difference for all hematological parameters between age different groups. Regarding the sex differences, male participants had significantly higher red blood count (P<0.001), hemoglobin content (P<0.001) and hematocrit (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Hematological parameters in adolescent as inhomogeneous population are not quantified sufficiently, especially hematological indices. RBC variables, regardless of the age, differ very much between male and female examinees, in favor of the male examinees. Hematological indices were insignificantly higher in males. Regarding the age of examinees, RBC variables showed significant inter-groups differences only within male adolescents. While with girls, ages span 8 to 18 yr, we did not find significant differences for most of the hematological variables.

The improved energy metabolism and blood oxygen-carrying capacity for pufferfish, Takifugu fasciatus, against acute hypoxia under the regulation of oxygen sensors

Hypoxia frequently occurs in aquatic ecosystem, which is influenced by salinity, water temperature, weather, and surface water runoff. In order to shed further light on the evolutionary and adaptive mechanisms in fish under hypoxic condition, the impact of acute hypoxia (1.63 ± 0.2 mg/L) and reoxygenation (7.0 ± 0.3 mg/L) on oxygen sensors, energy metabolism, and hematological indices was evaluated in Takifugu fasciatus. Data from transcriptional level analysis show that the expressions of genes related to oxygen sensors (HIF-1α, PHD2, and VHL) were upregulated in the brain and liver under hypoxia and recovered under reoxygenation. The upregulation of GLUT2, VEGF-A, and EPO in conjugation with VEGF-A protein and hematological indices conferred the rapid adjustments of cellular glucose uptake and blood oxygen-carrying capacities in pufferfish. Higher levels of glycolysis-related mRNAs (HK, PGK1, and PGAM2), HK activity, and proteins (PGK1 and PGAM2) were detected in the brain and liver under hypoxic condition compared with control. Interestingly, the expression of MDH1 at the mRNA, enzyme activity, and protein levels was significantly increased in the brain at 0 or 2 h and in the liver at 8 h under hypoxic condition. In addition, although the enzyme activity and mRNA expression of LDH in the brain were not significantly changed, a persistent upregulation was observed in the liver during hypoxia exposure. This study demonstrated that pufferfish could counterpoise the energetic demands and hematological functional properties evoked by oxygen sensors after hypoxia. Our findings provided new insights into the molecular regulatory mechanism of hypoxia in pufferfish.

Hematological indices as simple, inexpensive and practical severity markers of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: a meta-analysis

Background

Clinical detection of inflammatory markers is useful to assess the degree of nocturnal hypoxia and predict the presence of complications in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) patients. Nowadays, some researchers proposed that hematological parameters could be substituted for novel disease-specific biochemical markers (such as C-reactive protein) because they were comparatively cheap, simple and practical. But there was a contradiction whether the hematological parameters were positively correlated with the OSAS severity.

Methods

Medical databases were searched included PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Clinical Trial, Embase and Google Scholar (up to March 29, 2018). We used weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) from random-effects model.

Results

Seventeen studies were included in this meta-analysis and results were presented by different hematological parameters. Pooled analysis showed that OSAS was associated with a high level of WBC (white blood cell, 11 studies, 2,206 subjects, WMD: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.31 to 0.85; P<0.0001), NLR (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, 5 studies, 1416 subjects, WMD: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.13 to 0.80; P=0.007), MPV (mean platelet volume, 8 studies, 1,854 subjects, WMD: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.29 to 0.98; P=0.0004), PDW (platelet distribution width, 6 studies, 1,911 subjects, WMD: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.47 to 1.06; P<0.00001), PLR (platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, 3 studies, 998 subjects, WMD: 21.76; 95% CI: 8.54 to 34.99; P=0.001), RDW (red cell distribution width, 5 studies, 1,701 subjects, WMD: 0.31; 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.51; P=0.002) and HCT (hematocrit, 3 studies, 662 subjects, WMD: 1.58; 95% CI: 0.52 to 2.64; P=0.003). But OSAS was associated with a low level of LYM (lymphocyte, 5 studies, 1,285 subjects, WMD: -0.27; 95% CI: -0.49 to -0.06; P=0.01). There was a gradual rising trend from mild OSAS to severe OSAS existed in all subgroups.

Conclusions

Hematological indices are comparatively Simple, Inexpensive and Practical Severity Markers of OSAS including WBC, LYM, NLR, MPV, PDW, PLR, RDW and HCT.

Sodium chloride treatment effects on rainbow trout suffering from proliferative kidney disease caused by Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of a long-term sodium chloride bath on rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss naturally infected by Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae. A total of 106 infected fish were divided into 2 groups. One group was left untreated and the other was treated with sodium chloride in increasing doses up a concentration of 0.8%. After 14 d, treatment was stopped and for a further 7 d the fish response to the sodium chloride bath was observed. Cumulative mortality was significantly lower in the treated group (19.2%) compared to the untreated group (31.5%) after 21 d. This corresponded to the lower but non-significant parasite intensity in kidney and spleen in the treated group after 14 d of treatment. However, lower prevalence of parasites in both tissues was recorded in the untreated group after 21 d of treatment, but a significant difference was observed only in spleen tissue. Furthermore, significant increases in leukocytes, hemoglobin, haematocrit, ferric reducing ability of plasma, and ceruloplasmin, and significant decreases in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase activities were noticed in the treated group compared to the untreated group. In contrast, significant decreases in lysozyme concentration in the mucus and phagocyte oxidative burst in the blood were observed in the treated group. Histopathological examination revealed proliferative and reparative changes in parenchymatous tissues in the treated group. The 14- and 21-d salt bath used in rainbow trout with proliferative kidney disease was associated with a reduction in mortality and enhanced the reparative phase in the treated group.

Association between exposure to pesticides and disorder on hematological parameters and kidney function in male agricultural workers

Pesticides occupy a critical position among many chemicals to which man can be exposed; their diffusion into the environment causes killing and damaging of some forms of life. The lack of highly selective pesticide action represents risk both for man and other desirable forms of life present in the environment. The present study was designed to evaluate the relation between exposure to pesticides and disorder on hematological parameters and kidney function of male agricultural workers with the mean age 37.11 ± 9.3. Another 100 unexposed men matched for age, and socioeconomic status were recruited as a control to compare the levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cells (RBCs), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and urea and creatinine concentration. The results indicate that there was no significant difference in hemoglobin concentration and hematocrit value among exposed group as compared to control group. However, there was a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the RBCs count and a highly significant increase (P < 0.01) in MCV among exposed group. There was no significant difference in MCH and MCHC among exposed group. There was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in urea (39.4 ± 22 mg/dl) among exposed group as compared to control (35.7 ± 26.3 mg/dl). Also, there was a highly significant increase (P < 0.01) in creatinine among exposed group (0.953 ± 0.3 mg/dl) as compared to control (0.8 ± 0.2 mg/dl). In conclusion, exposure to pesticides produces a variety of hematological parameter disorders as well as kidney malfunction in human.

Correlation of hematological indices and ratios derived from them with FIQR scores in fibromyalgia

Objectives:

To determine the hematological indices and ratios derived from them in patients with fibromyalgia and to correlate the scores of Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire Revised (FIQR) with the ratios.

Methods:

This case control study was performed in the College of Pharmacy at Hawler Medical University in Erbil-Iraq, from November 2016 to June 2017, and it included 40 healthy subjects (Group I) and 150 newly diagnosed FM (Group II). The American College of Rheumatology -10 (ACR-10) diagnostic criteria were used in the diagnosis of FM. The scores of the Revised Fibromyalgia Questionnaire Impact (FIQR), and tender points were calculated, and the hematological indices and ratios were determined.

Results:

Group II showed significantly higher mean values of hematological indices and the ratios of neutrophil to lymphocyte (NLR), derived neutrophil to lymphocyte (dNLR) and platelet to lymphocyte (PLR). Group II patients have a significant higher score of FIQR. A significant correlation between the total score of FIQR with the hematological ratios (F=4.143, R=0.355, R²=0.126, p=0.002) with a variability of 12.6%.

Conclusion:

We conclude that the hematological indices are significantly altered and they are significantly correlated with the total score of fibromyalgia impact questionnaire revised.

The effect of Zataria multiflora on pulmonary function tests, hematological and oxidant/antioxidant parameters in sulfur mustard exposed veterans, a randomized doubled-blind clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Sulfur mustard is an alkylating agent which cause to short and long term incapacitations on various organs including lung. There is no definite treatment for lung disorders induced by SM exposure. In the present study, the preventive effect of Zataria multiflora (Z. multiflora) on hematological parameters, oxidant/antioxidant markers and pulmonary function tests (PFT) in veterans, 27-30 years after exposed to SM were studied.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty seven veterans allocated to three groups included: placebo group (P) and two groups treated with 5 and 10 mg/kg/day of Z. multiflora (Zat 5 and Zat 10). Drugs were prescribed in a double-blind manner for two months. Total and different WBC, hematological indices, oxidant/antioxidant markers and PFT values included; force vital capacity (FVC) and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were assessed at the beginning (step 0), one and two month (step I and II, respectively) after starting treatment.

RESULTS

Total and different white blood cell in Zat 5 and 10 mg/kg treated groups in Step I and II were significantly decreased compared to Step 0 (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). The levels of thiol, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in Zat 5 and 10 mg/kg treated groups in step I and II were significantly increased (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001) but the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) significantly decreased in two treatment groups compared to Step 0 (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001 respectively). FVC and PEF values were significant increase in Zat 5 and 10 mg/kg treated groups in step I and II compared to step 0 (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). Furthermore, FVC and PEF values in Zat 5 mg/kg were also increased in step II compared to step I (p < 0.01 for both). The percentage improvement of total and differential WBC, oxidant/antioxidant markers, FVC and PEF values during two moth treatment period significantly improved in the treated groups compared to the placebo group.

CONCLUSION

Z. multiflora reduces inflammatory cells and oxidant biomarkers, while increase antioxidant biomarkers and improved PFT tests in SM exposed patients in a two moth treatment period.

Risk assessment for changes in the metabolic profile and body weights of pre-pubertal gilts during long-term monotonic exposure to low doses of zearalenone (ZEN)

The aim of the study was to examine whether the process of exposure to low doses of ZEN generates changes in the hematological and biochemical image of blood serum. During the experiment, pre-pubertal gilts (up to 25kg) were administered per os ZEN at a dose of 40μg/kg BW (Group E, n=18) or placebo (Group C, n=21) on a daily basis for 42days. Blood samples for investigation were collected seven times at intervals of one week. In the experimental groups, slight but statistically significant changes in the values of selected biochemical blood indices such as glucose, ALT, P_in, total protein and Fe, or in hematological indices such as RBC, MCV, PLT, WBC, basophils, eosinophils and monocytes were observed. Based on statistical analysis between the groups, differences in the values of WBC, basophils, peroxidase negative cells, Hb, Ht, MCV, HDW, glucose, ALT, AP, total protein, iron or potassium were found. In Group E, decreasing trends in the values of PLT and glucose, and increasing trends in the values of total protein, P_in, Na and Cl were found. The described situations occurred during the last three weeks of exposure. Low levels of exposure to ZEN lead to completely different changes in the metabolic profile than those resulting from higher doses of the toxin. The stimulatory effect of mycotoxins, observed in initial stages of exposure, is eliminated when the compensatory response and adaptive mechanisms are triggered, and due to excessive loss of energy, which may point to more efficient feed utilization and/or detoxification processes. The values of body weight gain obtained in Group E were monotonically higher in four out of the six investigated weeks of exposure. The above changes were accompanied by a decrease in glucose concentrations and higher total protein levels (a rising tendency), which could have affected the rate of body weight gain.

Concomitant measurements of serum annexin A5 levels and hematological indices as markers in recent and old myocardial infarction with low ejection fraction: A preliminary study

BACKGROUND

Serum annexin A5 (anxA5) level is significantly increased in patients with acute coronary syndrome. Hematological indices are significantly increased in patients with ischemic heart disease. This study aimed to demonstrate the changes in the distribution of blood cells and the levels of anxA5 in patients presented with significant low ejection fraction ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI) in comparison with corresponding patients with ischemic heart disease.

METHODS

Patients with low ejection fraction presenting at Hospital of Diyala University of Iraq were enrolled. Electrocardiograph (ECG), echocardiograph, hematological indices, serum annexin V (anxV) levels and the determinants of the cardio-metabolic risk factors were performed. Based on clinical examination, ECG findings and laboratory tests, patients were divided into healthy subjects (n=20); patients with acute MI (n=40) and with chronic MI (n=12).

RESULTS

Acute MI has significant high levels of serum triglyceride, uric acid and high mean value of red cell distribution width (RDW) compared with healthy subjects and chronic MI. Platelet distribution width (PDW) is significantly reduced in patients of acute MI and chronic MI compared with healthy subjects, whereas the plateletcrit (PCT) is significantly higher in acute MI compared with healthy subjects. There is an insignificant difference between the means of serum anxA5 levels of acute MI (35.6±7.2ng/ml) and chronic MI (32.4±8.9ng/ml), but significantly higher than the cutoff level of the healthy subjects (5ng/ml).

CONCLUSIONS

Measurement of serum annexin level is a useful diagnostic marker of acute or chronic MI with low ejection fraction.

Hematological indices in febrile neonates with malaria parasitaemia in Calabar

Background:

Normal hematological indices has been determined in Nigerian newborns and found to be lower compared to their Caucasian counterparts. This was attributed to genetic factors. Malaria is endemic in Nigeria and is one of the major causes of ill health and death. Anemia is an important manifestation of malaria. Resistance by malaria parasites to antimalarial drug exacerbates the situation by continuous hemolysis.

Aim:

To determine the hematological indices in febrile newborn with malaria parasitemia.

Materials and Methods:

One-hundred fifty neonates (0-28 days) with fever admitted into the Newborn Unit of University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, over a 6 months period, were recruited consecutively. Blood film for malaria parasites and samples for full blood count were obtained and sent to the laboratory before commencement of the treatment. Data analysis was with SPSS version 14.

Results:

One-hundred fifty babies were recruited into the study. Most (85.3%) of the babies were aged ≤7 days. Six babies (4%) had malaria parasitemia. Plasmodium falciparum was the only species identified. All the babies that had parasitemia were anemic (mean hemoglobin [Hb] concentration of 12.6 g/dl) even when parasite count was low (average of 30.6/µl) though this could not be attributed solely to malaria. None of these neonates was transfused. All the other hematological indices were within the normal range of healthy newborn population irrespective of parasitization.

Conclusion:

Neonatal malaria does occur in our environment. While it does not affect the white blood indices, it lowers neonatal Hb. It is recommended that Hb concentration be estimated in newborns with malaria to reduce infant morbidity and mortality in our environment.

Arsenic induced hematological and biochemical responses in nutritionally important catfish Clarias batrachus (L.)

The impact of sublethal toxicity of sodium arsenite on hematological and certain biochemical parameters of the fresh water catfish Clarias batrachus has been analyzed following exposure of sublethal concentration (1 mg/L; 5% of LC₅₀ value) of sodium arsenite for 10, 30, 45, and 60 days. Arsenic bioaccumulation in the blood tissue of the fish increased progressively with increased period of exposure. The values of total erythrocyte count (TECs), total leucocytes count (TLCs), hemoglobin concentration, and packed cell volume (PCV) 1.40 ± 0.03 × 10⁶/mm³, 174.83 ± 2.74 × 10³/mm³, 5.01 ± 0.26 g/100 ml, 25.00 ± 1.06 were observed respectively at the end of 60 days of exposure. The results of hematological indices were found to be 179.23 ± 8.81fl/cell for mean corpuscular volume (MCV), 35.92 ± 1.89 pg/cell for mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and 20.17 ± 1.12 g/dl for mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). The present findings are clearly indicating severe fish anemia due to the arsenic salt exposure. The continued arsenic toxicity results in decreased serum protein concentration that might be a cause for the loss of weight as well as weakness in the fish.

Hematological Indices in Children with Non-organic Failure to Thrive: a Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

Non-organic failure to thrive (NFTT) is the most common cause of failure to thrive (FTT) which is attributed to inadequate nutrition due to economic factors or parental neglect . NFTT can lead to a vicious cycle of poor and inadequate eating and severity of anemia. The aim of this study was to determine the hematological indices in children with NFTT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a cross sectional case control study, iron status and blood indices of forty five aged 6-60 months children with NFTT were evaluated and compared with 45 healthy control children (with matching of age and sex).

RESULTS

In this study, the prevalence of anemia was 48.9% in NFTT compared to 11.4% in the control group (p<0.001). Microcytic anemia was significantly more prevalent among the subjects than the controls (77.8% versus 27.3%; p<0. 001). The serum iron level was 73.2 and 62.8 mcg/dl for the case and control groups (P=0.29). The ferritin level in the study group was 29.8 versus 35.47 ng/ml in the control group (p=0.227). The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia among children with mild, moderate, and severe underweight was 44.4%, 45.5%, and 48%, respectively. The highest prevalence of iron-deficiency anemia was seen between age group of 12 and 24 months (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Based on the results of this study, a correlation between malnutrition and anemia was found. However, further studies are needed to assess and confirm the current outcomes.

Reversible antispermatogenic and antisteroidogenic activities of Feronia limonia fruit pulp in adult male rats

OBJECTIVE

To explore the antispermatogenic and testicular antisteroidogenic activities of Feronia limonia fruit pulp southern India.

METHODS

Fourty Wistar male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) were equally divided into four groups. Experimental groups were administered with the ethanolic extract of Feronia limonia (F. limoni) fruit pulp at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight once daily for 55 days. All treated rats had corresponding recovery groups. At the end of each treatment periods, various spermatological indices, tissue biochemicals and testicular enzymes levels were analysed. Blood profiles were also estimated.

RESULTS

Compared with the control, the F. limonia fruit pulp at both dose levels did not decrease body weight, which were associated with decline in epididymal sperm count, motility, viability and increased percent of abnormal sperm. Further, F. limonia fruit pulp at 500 mg/kg body weight markedly reduced the epididymal and testicular protein content by 24.58% and 29.86%, respectively, as well as the glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and Δ(5)-3β-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase) levels by 42.82% and 38.08%, respectively, while a significant elevation was observed in testicular cholesterol and ascorbic acid content. A gradual recovery of all parameters was observed after 55 days of treatment withdrawal. No significant alterations in haematological indices were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings indicate that F. limonia fruit pulp may have reversible antispermatogenic and antisteroidogenic properties, and could partially support the traditional use as male contraceptive.

The influence of decreased levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol on hematological indices in sickle cell disease patients

Background:

Changes in lipoproteins levels in sickle cell disease (SCD) patients are well-known, but the physiological ramifications of the low levels observed have not been entirely resolved.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of decreased levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) on hematological indices in steady state SCD patients.

Subjects and Methods:

The study was conducted on 84 SCD patients on steady clinical state, 36 males and 48 females with a mean age 21 (6) years. All those who have had blood transfusion within 4 months, infection, chronic kidney disease, and inflammatory episodes were excluded. Full blood count, total cholesterol, HDL-c, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride were assayed. Hematological indices of SCD patients with decreased levels of HDL-c were compared with those with normal HDL-c levels.

Results:

The SCD patients with decreased levels of HDL-c presented with lower levels of hemoglobin (P < 0.01), hematocrit (P < 0.001), total leukocyte count (P = 0.02), red blood cell count (P < 0.01), absolute neutrophil count (P = 0.04), absolute monocyte count (P < 0.01), and triglyceride (P = 0.02). Of the 47 SCD with decreased levels of HDL-c, 82.9% (39/47) have had blood transfusion while 48.6% (18/37) out of 37 SCD with normal HDL-c have had blood transfusion.

Conclusion:

SCD patients with decreased levels of HDL-c had more severe anemia, higher leukocyte and platelet counts than those with normal HDL-c levels. The low HDL-c marker may assist in the prediction of adverse clinical events in these patients.

Moderation of hematological and plasma biochemical indices of sub-chronic salt-loaded rats by aqueous extract of the sclerotia of Pleurotus tuberregium (Fr) Sing's: implications for the reduction of cardiovascular risk

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The sclerotia of Pleurotus tuberregium are used in Southern Nigeria for the management of diabetes and hypertension, yet there is scarcity of information in the literature regarding the evaluation of the biochemical basis of its antihypertensive property, as well as the biochemical impact of its administration to the hypertensive. Thus, in this study, the ability of an aqueous extract of the sclerotia of Pleurotus tuberregium to moderate biochemical and hematological indices was investigated in normal and sub-chronic salt-loaded rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The normal and treatment control groups received a diet consisting 100% of the commercial feed, while the test control, reference and test treatment groups received an 8% salt-loaded diet. The extract was orally administered daily at 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight; while the moduretics was administered at 1 mg/kg. The normal and test control groups received appropriate volumes of water by the same route.

RESULTS

On gas chromatographic analysis of the crude aqueous extract, 29 known flavonoids (mainly 47.71% kaempferol and 37.36% quercetin), four saponins (mainly 72.93% avenacin B1 and 26.80% avenacin A1), six hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives (mainly 57.57% p-coumaric and 42.10% caffeic acid), ten carotenoids (mainly 58.44% carotene and 28.16% lycopene) and seven phytosterols (mainly 98.16% sitosterol) were detected. Also detected were nine benzoic acid derivatives (mainly 44.19% ferulic acid and 25.92% rosmarinic acid), six lignans (mainly 70.88% galgravin and 22.69% retusin), three allicins (mainly 71.92% diallyl thiosulphinate and 23.68% methyl allyl thiosulphinate), seven glycosides (mainly 84.86% arbutin and 12.01% ouabain), 31 alkaloids (mainly 48.82% lupanine, 32.26% augustamine) and 24 terpenes (mainly 60.66% limonene and 6.52% geranyl acetate). Compared to test control, the treatment significantly, dose-dependently lowered (P < 0.05) the mean cell volume, atherogenic indices (cardiac risk ratio, atherogenic coefficient and atherogenic index of plasma), plasma alanine and aspartate transaminase activities, mean cell hemoglobin, sodium, bicarbonate, urea, blood urea nitrogen, triglyceride, total-, non-high density lipoprotein-, low density lipoprotein- and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations, and neutrophils, monocytes and platelets counts of the treated animals. However, it significantly, dose-dependently increased (P < 0.05) the hemoglobin concentration, mean cell hemoglobin, red cells and lymphocytes counts, plasma high density lipoprotein cholesterol, calcium, potassium, chloride, creatinine, albumin and total protein concentrations of the treated animals.

CONCLUSIONS

All these results support the use of the plant in traditional health care, for the management of hypertension, and highlight the cardio-protective potential of the sclerotia, whilst suggesting that its antihypertensive activity may be mediated through alteration of plasma levels of sodium and potassium, or increases in muscle tone brought about by changes in plasma calcium levels.

Vitamin e supplementation with rauwolfia vomitoria root bark extract improves hematological indices

Background:

Vitamin supplementation in Rauwolfia vomitoria root bark extract administration may interact and impact significantly on hematology of albino Wistar rats.

Aim:

In this investigation we studied vitamin E supplementation with Rauwolfia vomitoria root bark extract on the hematology of experimental animals.

Materials and Methods:

Forty two rats weighing 200 – 230 g were randomly selected into six groups of seven animals each. Group 1 animals serve as controls; group 2 received vitamin E (10 IU/kg body weight). Groups 3 and 4 were given the extract (150 and 300 mg/kg body weight) respectively. Groups 5 and 6 were given vitamin E (10 IU/kg body weight), the extract (150 and 300 mg/kg body weight) respectively. The extract and the vitamin were administered daily by oral intubation. Blood samples analyzed for hematological indices.

Results:

Decrease in white blood cell count (WBC) was observed, indicating improved immunity of animals. Extract at 150 and 300 mg/kg body weight with and without vitamin E affected hemoglobin and packed cell volume.

Conclusion:

Rauwolfia vomitoria with or without vitamin E improved animal's immunity and enhances their hematology. Interaction of vitamin E with the extract affects medicinal therapeutics of this plant.