To study volume, conductivity, scatter parameters of neutrophils as an early diagnostic tool in acute bacterial infections at a teritiary level centre-a retrospective case control study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Acute bacterial infections are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with significant challenges in timely diagnosis due to the limitations of conventional methods such as microbiological cultures. Advances in haematology, particularly Volume, Conductivity, and Scatter (VCS) parameters, offer a rapid and efficient alternative for early detection. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of VCS parameters of neutrophils as an early diagnostic tool in acute bacterial infections. Methodology A retrospective case control study was conducted at a tertiary care center in Belagavi from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024. The study included 124 participants (62 cases with confirmed bacterial infections and 62 healthy controls). VCS parameters mean neutrophil volume (MNV), mean neutrophil conductivity (MNC), and mean neutrophil scatter ( were measured using an automated haematology analyser (Beckman Coulter DxH 900). Data were analysed using R version 4.2.2 and Microsoft Excel.