PERIPHERAL BLOOD SMEAR FINDINGS AND CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE IN PREGNANT WOMEN WITH COVID-19

ABSTRACT Aim: Peripheral blood smear analysis is a cornerstone diagnostic tool in hematology. Pregnant women with COVID-19, this diagnostic technique assumes heightened significance. Our study aims to elucidate the peripheral smear findings in pregnant women with COVID-19. Material and Methods: Our study's participants comprise 50 pregnant women diagnosed with COVID-19 and 50 controls. Clinical findings medications, peripheral blood smear and complete blood count parameters some of examined variables. The Chi-Square tests were employed to compare categorical measurements. Samples T-Test was used for numerical measurements. The groups were compared in terms of complete blood count parameters. Significant differences were identified between the groups. Results: The values of ferritin, CRP, procalcitonin, D-dimer, APTT, and fibrinogen exhibited significant differences among the groups. The lymphocyte ratio in the COVID-19 group is lower compared to the control group. The proportions of band cells, lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, vacuolated monocytes, and hypersegmented neutrophils exhibit statistically significant differences between the groups. Peripheral blood abnormalities are prevalent in microbial infections, particularly in viral infections. Conclusions: These abnormalities can provide insights into the underlying pathophysiological changes. In patients with COVID-19, no abnormalities have been observed in platelets and erythrocytes. However, compared to controls, atypical monocytes and neutrophil hypersegmentation are significantly elevated in COVID-19 patients.