Role of Red Cell Distribution Width-Coefficient of Variation (RDW-CV) in Detection of Iron Deficiency Anaemia in Early Pregnancy: A Case-Control Study

: Background: Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is a major health concern among pregnant women, especially in developing countries. Early detection is crucial to prevent adverse maternal and fatal outcomes. Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic utility of Red Cell Distribution Width – Coefficient of Variation (RDW-CV) in detecting IDA during early pregnancy (≤20 weeks) and compare it with serum ferritin and serum iron. Methods: A hospital-based case-control study was conducted at Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital (July 2023 – December 2024) among 100 anaemic (Hb <11 g/dL) and 100 non-anaemic (Hb ≥11 g/dL) pregnant women. RDW - CV, serum ferritin, and serum iron were analysed. Results: Low ferritin (<30 ng/dL) and low iron (<72 mcg/dL) were found in 90% and 77% of anaemic women, respectively. RDW-CV >14.5% was seen in 71% of cases vs. 14% of controls (p<0.001). RDW-CV showed 76.66% sensitivity, 80% specificity, and AUC=0.79 (p=0.04). Conclusion: RDW-CV is a simple, reliable, and cost-effective early screening tool for IDA in pregnancy.