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Red Cell Distribution Width as a Novel Prognostic Marker in Multiple Clinical Studies.
Bahman Yousefi1, Sarvin Sanaie2, Ali A Ghamari2
1Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Islamic Republic of Iran.
Summary
Red cell distribution width (RDW) indicates red blood cell size variation. Elevated RDW is linked to increased morbidity and mortality risk across various diseases, suggesting its potential as a diagnostic marker.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Clinical Pathology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Red cell distribution width (RDW) quantifies red blood cell (RBC) size heterogeneity (anisocytosis).
- RDW is a cost-effective tool for differentiating iron deficiency anemia from thalassemia trait.
- Emerging evidence links RDW to morbidity and mortality in diverse patient populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the association between increased RDW and clinical outcomes in common diseases.
- To explore the potential of RDW as a diagnostic indicator for various conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating RDW and disease outcomes.
- Analysis of the correlation between RDW levels and patient prognosis.
Main Results:
- Significant relationships observed between RDW and morbidity/mortality risks in multiple diseases.
- A strong association found between RDW changes and adverse outcomes in heart failure patients.
Conclusions:
- Elevated RDW is a potential prognostic marker across various clinical studies.
- Further research may establish RDW as a valuable diagnostic indicator for common diseases.

