Red Cell Distribution Width-Coefficient of Variation and Its Correlation With Components of Metabolic Syndrome: A Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND

Changes in erythrocyte shape caused by oxidative stress and persistent low-grade inflammation associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS) might cause variations in red cell distribution width-coefficient of variation (RDW-CV). This study assessed RDW-CV in MetS patients and looked at how it related to biochemical and clinical indicators. Changes in erythrocyte shape caused by oxidative stress and persistent low-grade inflammation associated with MetS might cause variations in RDW-CV.

METHODS

This case-control study was conducted in the general medicine department of Sharda Hospital in Greater Noida between January 2020 and June 2021. Fifty patients between the ages of 18 and 60 who satisfied the diagnostic criteria for MetS were included, along with fifty age- and sex-matched healthy controls. The clinical evaluation included blood pressure checks and anthropometric measurements. Laboratory examinations included complete blood counts (including RDW-CV), fasting and postprandial blood glucose, liver function tests, renal function tests, lipid profiles, and thyroid function testing.

RESULTS

Patients with metabolic syndrome exhibited a significantly higher mean RDW (15.06±1.64% vs. 13.22±1.29%) than healthy controls. RDW-CV showed strong associations with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, serum triglyceride levels, and abdominal circumference. RDW-CV quartiles, however, did not appear to be correlated with any other clinical variables. Greater RDW-CV quartiles were associated with a reduced hazard of metabolic syndrome in male individuals.

CONCLUSION

The mean RDW-CV was significantly greater in patients with MetS, and there were strong correlations with HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and abdominal circumference. These findings suggest that RDW-CV may be a conveniently available and reasonably priced hematological marker that reflects the metabolic and inflammatory changes linked to metabolic syndrome. To confirm its clinical usefulness, larger prospective investigations are necessary.