Title: Mentzer Index for Differential Diagnosis of Iron Deficiency anaemia and Beta Thalassemia Trait
Author: Dr Ajeet Gopchade
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v4i12.135
Abstract
Objective: Thalassemia trait is commonly seen in Indian population especially in certain communities like sindhis, kachchis, gujratis, Lohana, Prajapatiand Bengalis. The individuals having thalassemia trait usually have asymptomatic course and usually have mild microcytic hypochromic anemia. Since the other cause of microcytic anemia is iron deficiency anemia it is important to differentiate between individuals having iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia trait. Though the definitive diagnosis of thalassemia trait is possible only by Hb electrophoresis there are certain blood indices which can differentiate between thalassemia trait and Iron deficiency anemia. Mentzer index is such an index. The aim of our study was to evaluate the reliability of Mentzer index in the differentiation of iron deficiency anemia and Thalassemia trait.
Methods: This study was a prospective study done on 30 patients each of thalassemia trait and iron deficiency anemia (Total 60 patients). Only those patients who have been found to be having iron deficiency anemia by iron studies and cases of thalassemia trait who have been diagnosed by Hb electrophoresis were included in this study. Those patients who have received blood transfusion within 3 months of study were excluded from the study. Mentzer index of all the patients were calculated and the results were analyzed.
Results: Mentzer index more than 13 (indicating iron deficiency anemia) and less than 13 (indicating thalassemia) is found to be a reliable screening tool to differentiate in between iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia.
Conclusion: Iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia have different effects on blood indices. In resource poor and developing countries like that of India it can be used as screening tool. In doubtful cases the diagnosis can be confirmed by Hb Electrophoresis.
Keywords: Mentzer Index, Beta Thalassemia trait, Iron deficiency anemia.
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