Evaluating Hematological Changes in Hemodialysis Patients: A Retrospective Study in a Moroccan Hospital

Abstract

This retrospective study investigates hematological changes among hemodialysis patients at the Provincial Hospital Center Mohammed VI of El Haouz, Morocco, with a focus on anemia, hyperleukocytosis, infection, and normocytic anemia, along with their implications. A cohort of 100 patients undergoing regular hemodialysis was examined for severe anemia and signs of infection. Hematological parameters, including hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cells, and platelet counts, were systematically analyzed to identify deviations from normal reference ranges. Results showed a high prevalence of severe anemia, with 46% of patients exhibiting hemoglobin levels below 8 g/dL, and 60% of the cases were classified as normocytic anemia, highlighting a critical health concern in this population. Additionally, significant abnormalities in white blood cell counts, indicative of hyperleukocytosis, alongside elevated platelet counts, suggested compromised immune function and increased risks of infection and bleeding, which are common complications among dialysis patients. The study is particularly original as it offers a comprehensive analysis of hematological parameters in a rural Moroccan setting, where such data is scarce, providing critical insights into the unique challenges faced by this population. The findings emphasize the systemic impact of hemodialysis on hematological health, particularly in resource-constrained settings, where access to specialized care is limited. It underscores the importance of regular monitoring and individualized management, including the use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, iron supplementation, and tailored dialysis protocols. This research calls for enhanced clinical guidelines and further investigation into optimizing therapeutic approaches to improve the quality of life and outcomes for hemodialysis patients in rural regions.