Haematological parameters and SARS-CoV-2 RT PCR positivity among patients at fever clinic in a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a consequential impact on the global health system. Multisystem involvement is common in COVID-19. Many COVID-19 patients also showed changes in haematological parameters. This cross-sectional study included patients who attended the fever clinic of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh, with fever and/or upper respiratory symptoms. Demographic information, information regarding symptoms, exposure and comorbidities were collected. Complete blood count profile and C-reactive protein were done. Patients underwent RT-PCR for Covid-19 at the fever clinic. A total of 350 patients were included in the study. The study revealed that 21.4% of respondents were COVID-19 positive. PCR-positive patients were more likely to be symptomatic and had elevated C reactive protein levels. COVID-19 positive patients also showed higher total leucocyte, neutrophil, lymphocyte, eosinophil, basophil, and platelet count. BSMMU J 2022; 15(2): 75-79