A Cross-Sectional Study Evaluating Inflammatory Markers in Hemophilia and Association with Chronic Complications

Abstract

Introduction: Inflammatory markers in hemophilia have been implicated in various bleeding-related complications such as hemarthrosis and muscle hematoma causing damage to the joints and muscle and overt bleeding episodes. Materials and Method: This cross-sectional study included 30 patients of hemophilia with acute bleeding episode (less than 48 hours) and 30 patients in non-bleeding group (more than 2 weeks). Hemoglobin, leucocyte count, platelet count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), serum albumin, serum fibrinogen, serum ferritin, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and IL 1β levels in all the subjects was measured and a correlation was sought between the two groups and with the complications of the disease. Results: ESR, CRP, Fibrinogen, LDH, Ferritin, TNF-α and Interleukin (IL)-1β was higher in acute Bleeder group as compared to Non-bleeder group. The hemophilic patients with joint deformity had elevated ESR and IL-1β. Conclusion: In hemophilia patients, CRP, ESR, Fibrinogen, Ferritin, LDH, IL-1β and TNF-α may have a role as an acute bleeding marker. ESR and IL 1 beta may be markers of arthropathy in hemophilia suggesting that inflammation may have a vital role in hemophilic arthropathy.

Keywords

• acute bleeding
• hemarthrosis
• hemophilia
• inflammatory markers