Role of hematological indices to Distinguish iron deficiency anemia From beta thalassemia trait in Antenatal screening

Abstract

ABSTRACT TITLE: Role of Hematological Indices to Distinguish Iron Deficiency Anemia from Beta Thalassemia Trait in Antenatal Screening BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Microcytic hypochromic anemia is a common finding in pregnancy, primarily due to iron deficiency anemia (IDA) or beta thalassemia trait (BTT). Differentiating these conditions is essential to prevent unnecessary iron supplementation in BTT and to provide genetic counseling. This study evaluates Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) and Mentzer Index (MI) as costeffective screening tools and compares them with the Naked Eye Single Tube Red Cell Osmotic Fragility Test (NESTROFT), iron studies, and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) for confirmation.