Correlation of thrombocytosis with markers of iron profile among patients diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia.

Abstract

Objective: To correlate thrombocytosis with markers of iron profile (serum iron, total iron binding capacity, serum ferritin and transferrin saturation). Study Design: Cross-sectional Prospective study. Setting: The Hematology Out-patient Department, Noor Thalassemia Foundation. Period: August 10, 2024 to August 10, 2025. Methods: A total of 142 patients having iron deficiency anemia were enrolled in the study by consecutive sample technique. Blood samples were drawn and tested for complete blood count and markers of iron profile (serum iron, total iron binding capacity, serum ferritin and transferrin saturation). The correlation between marker of iron profile and platelet count was observed using Pearson correlation. Our study cohort was divided in two groups: group A (platelet count >450x10⁹/L) and group B (platelet count <450x10⁹/L). Independent T test was applied to find the hematological and chemical findings of patients of both groups. Results: Platelet count showed significantly inverse relationship with serum iron (r = -0.192, p = 0.022), transferrin saturation (r = -0.213, p = 0.011) and serum ferritin (r = -0.178, p = 0.049) while a significantly positive correlation with TIBC (r = +0.165, p = 0.034). Transferrin saturation differs significantly in both groups, group A (4.67%) vs. group B (6.63%) (p=0.014). Conclusion: The inverse association between platelet count and markers of iron status confirms that thrombocytosis in IDA is a reactive process secondary to iron deficiency. Thrombocytosis in iron deficiency anemia reflects the severity of underlying iron deficiency.