Infection associated hemophagocytosis: a clinicopathological correlation

ABSTRACT

To study the etiology and intensity of hemephagocytosis [HP] associated with infection and to observe the clinicomorphological effects of Hemephagocytic syndrome [HPS]. Sixty two patients suffering from infection of varied etiology [viral, tuberculosis, enteric fever, malaria, Leishmaniasis] were included in the study. Bone marrow aspiration was done in all cases along with complete blood counts. Bone marrow smears were examined for HP and its intensity and effect on hematological parameters was noted. Viral infection was found in 17 patients followed by tuberculosis 09 enteric fever 13 malaria 08, visceral leishmaniasis[9], brucellosis[3], and misc[3] Most patients showed either moderate, grade II[31] or severe degree, grade III[21] of HP. Hemophagocytic syndrome was present in 21 patients. Patients with increased intensity of HP in the bone marrow had profound effect on hematological parameters, particularly hemoglobin and platelet count, resulting in the depression of these cell lines. Viral, bacterial and parasites infections play an important role in the causation of histiocytic hyperplasia with HP. It may present as HPS with multisystem disorder which could be fatal if not properly diagnosed and treated. Severe intensity of HP has a profound effect on Hematology parameters of patients particularly on hemoglobin level and platelet count