Role of Bioinformatics based Red Cell Indices in the Diagnosis of Iron Deficiency Anemia and to Differentiate it from Beta Thalassemia and to Assess Its Reliability in Analysing the Level of Prognosis

Abstract

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a prevalent hematological disorder characterized by a deficiency of iron, leading to a reduction in red blood cell production and subsequent impairment of oxygen transport. Accurate and timely diagnosis of IDA is crucial for effective management and prevention of complications. Various red cell indices, including the Mentzer, Shine& Lal, and other emerging indices, have been proposed as practical tools for distinguishing IDA from other types of anemia (7,16,18). This comprehensive review aims to assess the significance of the Mentzer, Shine& Lal, and other red cell indices in the diagnosis of IDA and their utility in clinical practice. A systematic search was conducted to identify relevant studies and publications that evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of these indices in different patient populations. In conclusion, the Mentzer, Shine& Lal, and other emerging red cell indices offer valuable tools for screening and differentiating IDA from other forms of anemia. When used in conjunction with a comprehensive clinical evaluation, these indices can aid in the diagnosis of IDA and guide appropriate management strategies. Further research is warranted to validate their performance in diverse patient populations and explore their potential integration with novel diagnostic techniques.