A Novel Parameter for Predicting Therapeutic Response in Iron Deficiency Anemia: Red Blood Cell Distribution Width

Abstract

Aim: Anemia is a public health problem worldwide. Cost effectiveness and efficient use of resources are vitally important. Red blood cell distribution width, which can be obtained from a standard complete blood count, is a measure of the variability in size of circulating erythrocytes. The present study was performed to investigate whether red blood cell distribution width can be used to predict response to iron therapy. Methods: This study was conducted in 50 patients admitted to hematology and family medicine clinics. Complete blood count and reticulocyte count were determined on day 5; complete blood count was examined 1 month after commencement of therapy. Results: Statistically significant differences were detected between hemoglobin levels and red blood cell distribution width values at the time of diagnosis and on day 5 and after 1 month of therapy. A significant positive correlation was found between the increase in red blood cell distribution width and the increase in hemoglobin. Conclusion: Red blood cell distribution width may be used in place of reticulocyte count to predict response to iron therapy. Red blood cell distribution width is the best biomarker for this purpose as a component of complete blood count, and therefore it may be accepted as superior to reticulocyte count.