
International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research
E-ISSN: 2582-2160
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Impact Factor: 9.24
A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal
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Volume 7 Issue 2
March-April 2025
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A Systematic Review on: Diagnostic Accuracy of MCV/RBC Count Ratio (Mentzer Index) for Screening of Beta-Thalassemia Trait
Author(s) | Ms. Sudeshna Bakshi |
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Country | India |
Abstract | Introduction: Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder characterized by abnormal hemoglobin production. Beta thalassemia, one of its primary forms, affects populations across regions from Africa to Southeast Asia. Differentiating beta-thalassemia from iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is essential, with the Mentzer index (MCV/RBC count ratio) being a simple and cost-effective screening tool. Objective: To assess the diagnostic accuracy of the Mentzer index for screening beta-thalassemia through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: A systematic search was conducted using relevant keywords and MESH terms in Cochrane Library and MEDLINE. Studies published in English up to March 2017 were included. Quality was assessed using QUADAS-2. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratios were calculated. Meta-regression analyzed factors affecting diagnostic accuracy. Results: Twenty-seven studies were included in the review. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, AUC, and diagnostic odds ratio for the Mentzer index were 0.84, 0.88, 0.93, and 38, respectively. Fagan’s plot showed increased post-test probability to 88% when positive, and reduced to 15% when negative. Meta-regression identified study design as a key factor influencing diagnostic accuracy. Conclusion: The Mentzer index is an effective screening tool for beta-thalassemia, providing reliable differentiation from IDA. Its use in mass screening could help reduce the burden of thalassemia, particularly in resource-limited settings. |
Keywords | Beta thalassemia trait, Mentzer index, Diagnostic test accuracy, Sensitivity & specificity |
Published In | Volume 7, Issue 2, March-April 2025 |
Published On | 2025-03-29 |
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E-ISSN 2582-2160

CrossRef DOI is assigned to each research paper published in our journal.
IJFMR DOI prefix is
10.36948/ijfmr
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