Relation of immunoglobulin level and white blood cell count with frequency of infection in splenectomized and non-splenectomized B thalassemia major patients

Abstract

Background: Beta-thalassemia major is an autosomal recessive condition caused by absent (β0) synthesis of the β globin chains of the hemoglobin tetramer. Objectives: Evaluation of immunoglobulin level and white blood cell count in splenectomized and non non splenectomized patient as well as comparison of the levels of Ig and WBC with frequency of infection. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study included a total of 60 patients with beta-thalassemia major and 20 age and sex matched apparently healthy individual as a control, blood taken from them for an evaluation of immunoglobulin level and white blood cell count. Results: There is no significant difference in immunoglobulin level between splenectomized and non splenectomized B-thalassemia major patients and control groups. Also, there is significant increase in mean Frequency of infection / year for patients with thalassemia major in comparison to control, Specifically, splenectomized patients are having significant increase in frequency of infection in comparison to non splenectomizd. There is a significant difference in mean of White blood cell count, Neutrophil, Lymphocytes in patients with splenectomy, non-splenectomy and control group. Conclusion: Immunoglobulin levels are within normal range in thalassemia major patients whether splenectomized or non splenectomized. Leukocytes count mainly neutrophils and lymphocytes are higher in splenectomised patients. Frequency of infection is higher in splenectomed patients and there is a positive correlation with IgA and IgG.