Reference Values for Blood Cells in HIV-Negative People in Tanzania
Author Information
Author(s): Ngowi Bernard J, Mfinanga Sayoki G, Bruun Johan N, Morkve Odd
Primary Institution: Haydom Lutheran Hospital, Tanzania
Hypothesis
What are the normal reference values for CD4 T cells, lymphocytes, leucocytes, and haemoglobin levels in healthy, HIV-negative adolescents and adults in rural northern Tanzania?
Conclusion
The study found that immunohaematological values in the Tanzanian population differ from standard values used in Western countries, with females showing higher CD4 T cell counts and lower haemoglobin levels than males.
Supporting Evidence
- Females had significantly higher mean absolute CD4 T cell counts than males.
- The mean absolute CD4 T cell count was 745.8 cells/mm3.
- The study highlights the need for local reference values for monitoring HIV/AIDS patients.
Takeaway
This study looked at blood cell counts in healthy people in Tanzania and found that women have more CD4 cells but less haemoglobin than men.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study was conducted with blood samples collected from participants attending voluntary HIV counselling and testing clinics.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to over-reporting of clinical symptoms used for screening.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and may have missed some comorbid conditions during screening.
Participant Demographics
102 participants, 42 males (41.2%) and 60 females (58.8%), mean age 32.6 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.008 for CD4 T cells, p = 0.009 for CD8 T cells, p = 0.003 for haemoglobin levels.
Confidence Interval
95% CI 30.2–35.0 for age, 95% CI 695.5–796.3 for CD4 T cells, 95% CI 12.7–13.7 for haemoglobin.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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