Red Cell Changes in Hyperthyroidism

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Abstract
The Coulter ''S'' red cell profile was studied prospectively in 100 untreated non-anemic hyperthyroid patients and followed up in 52 of them until they had become euthyroid with radio-iodine or carbimazole treatment. Serial hematological data were also obtained in 23 hyperthyroid patients during treatment with .beta.-adrenoreceptor blocking drug alone. The most significant finding was a low mean corpuscular volume (MCV) which was invariably present throughout the hyperthyroid state. Treatment with .beta.-adrenoreceptor blocking drugs did not significantly alter any of the red cell parameters. The MCV increased and was restored to normal with radio-iodine or carbimazole treatment although there was a lag period of about 6-8 wk between achieving the euthyroid state and the normalization of this red cell index. While none of the patients were anemic, the hemaglobin level rose significantly following effective anti-thyroid treatment. Measurement of the MCV may have a useful role in the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism. Two possible mechanisms leading to the observed red cells changes in hyperthyroidism are postulated.

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