Evaluation of complete blood count parameters, cell ratios, and cell volume indices in mushroom poisonings

Abstract

Objective: Mushroom poisoning is still a significant health-care problem, with the potential to affect blood parameters. The present study analyses the effect of mushroom poisoning on complete blood cell parameters, cell ratios, and cell volume indices and the effect of the mentioned parameters on prognosis/hospital length of stay. Methods: The study involved the retrospective assessment of 48 patients who became symptomatic after ingesting mushrooms. Patients who were 18 years and above and who spent at least one day in hospital were included in the study. The control group comprised individuals with similar characteristics to the patient group. The complete blood cell parameters, platelet indices (mean platelet volume, plateletcrit (PCT)), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet to lymphocyte ratio levels were compared between the two groups, and these ratios were analyzed for any correlation with length of hospital stay. Results: NLR was significantly higher and PCT was significantly lower in the mushroom-poisoned group, while all other parameters were similar between the groups. NLR had a positive correlation and PCT had a negative correlation with length of hospital stay. Conclusion: NLR and PCT levels can provide information about prognosis and can aid in the prediction of hospital stay in mushroom-poisoned patients. Further investigations are needed to investigate effects of intoxication on hematological system elements.