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A clinicopathological investigation on morphological alterations of red blood cells among treated and untreated type II diabetes mellitus patients

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: The cross-sectional study was designed to analyze the morphological changes occurring in red blood cells (RBCs) among patients with type II diabetes mellitus (type II DM) and to investigate the association of these changes with various blood cell indices. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 180 participants aged 20-65 years were divided into three groups: untreated type II DM (n = 60), treated type II DM (n = 60), and healthy controls (n = 60). Blood samples were collected, and blood cell indices were analyzed using an automated hematology analyzer. The patient's demographic characteristics, hemoglobin (Hb), fasting and postprandial glucose level, and HbA1C (%) were measured and correlated with RBC indices. RBC morphology was examined through bright-field and scanning electron microscopy. RESULTS: A significant reduction in mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and packed cell volume in both treated and untreated type II DM groups was observed than in controls. Hb levels were significantly higher in untreated male patients, while untreated females had lower Hb levels. Significant increases in burr cells and acanthocytes were observed in type II DM patients, suggesting impaired RBC function due to hyperglycemia and oxidative stress. Negative correlations between MCV, MCH, and HbA1C levels were observed, indicating that higher blood sugar levels were associated with smaller RBCs and reduced Hb content. CONCLUSIONS: The study also highlighted gender-specific differences in RBC indices, with female patients showing a greater reduction in MCHC. These findings suggest that type II DM significantly affects RBC morphology and function, emphasizing the need for early monitoring and management of blood glucose levels to prevent further hematological complications.

Source: Indian Journal of Pathology and Microbiology

DOI: 10.4103/ijpm.ijpm_99_25

Authors: Madhurima Basak, Surya Kanta Dey, Sourav Ghosh, Dipanjan Bhattacharjee, Arun Nayek, Abhishek Janaa

Institutions: Brainware University, Ananda Chandra College, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bhubaneswar

Language: English

Topic: Erythrocyte Function and Pathophysiology

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $200