Hemoglobin and serum ferritin concentration in anemic and nonanemic human immunodeficiency virus females in India

Aim: This study was planned to assess hemoglobin (Hb) and serum ferritin in anemic and nonanemic HIV females. Materials and Methods: The present prospective study was conducted during 2012–2013 in the department of biochemistry in collaboration with department of medicine (HIV clinic). In 200 seropositive females (age: 18–50 years) attending antiretroviral therapy clinic after routine gynecological and hematological investigations, CD4 count, serum iron, and ferritin were analyzed by chemiluminescence. Results were calculated by SPSS version 17. Student's t-test and regression analysis were done. Results: Hb showed a positive correlation with serum iron and ferritin and was statistically significant. Anemia occurs most commonly in these patients and indicates increased risk of mortality. Serum ferritin was correlated to CD4 cell counts indicating that level of HIV disease progression and viral load. Finding of high serum ferritin with high CD4 in the present study support to the role of inflammation in increased serum ferritin levels and high iron stores in HIV may have adverse events and effects. Conclusion: High ferritin levels in HIV patients suggest that redistribution of iron and decreased activity of erythropoietic cells is mainly responsible for anemia. Serum ferritin levels need to be evaluated carefully in HIV patients with advanced disease. Iron overload and adverse HIV related outcomes due to high iron exposure can be prevented by screening the iron status and stores in anemic HIV women. Also there is need of other effective strategies of locating other causes of anemia that should be adopted.