Hematological parameters at high altitude

Haematological parameters as a base line high altitude study have been documented at various altitudes. Hypoxic effect in the form of increased Hb and Hct was observed starting at an altitude of 8000 ft and progressing thereafter. However, the effect was not statistically significant at altitudes above 10,000 ft. Low total leucocyte count and low platelet count was observed at > 10,000 ft. Some discrepancy was noted between Hct and Hb levels at these heights possibly due to relative hypochromia as a result of latent iron deficiency