Hematologic markers of influenza a H1N1 for early laboratory diagnosis and treatment assessment

Abstract

Background: Influenza A H1N1 has contributed to significant morbidity and mortality, yet very few studies on changes in hematologic and biochemical markers have been reported. Methods: The variable characteristics of several laboratory indices were statistically analyzed during the disease course. Results: In the incipient stage, the RBC and platelet counts in most patients were normal, while total WBC, neutrophils, and lymphocytes decreased in some cases. The hepatic and renal function indicators were mostly within the normal limits, while electrolyte imbalance occurred in some cases. T lymphocytes subgroups counts were significantly decreased in the acute stage and became extremely low a few days later, then recovered to normal limits in the convalescent stage. Conclusions: T lymphocytes subgroups could be considered as progressive markers of H1N1, which were of great clinical significance in early diagnosis, progression, and prognosis evaluation of H1N1. This work provided convenient hematologic diagnostic criteria for reference.