Yes, pleural effusion can be associated with low hemoglobin levels.
According to a study of patients with secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (sHLH), those with pleural effusion had lower hemoglobin (HB) levels compared to those without pleural effusion. The study noted that pleural effusion was present in a significant portion (58.6%) of the sHLH population they examined.
Here's a breakdown of the finding:
- Pleural Effusion and sHLH: Pleural effusion, characterized by fluid accumulation around the lungs, was common in the sHLH patients studied.
- Lower Hemoglobin: The sHLH patients with pleural effusions were observed to have statistically significant lower hemoglobin levels (p < 0.05) compared to patients with sHLH without pleural effusions.
- Other Blood Parameters: In addition to lower hemoglobin, the study also revealed that patients with pleural effusion also had lower platelet (PLT) counts and albumin (ALB) levels, and higher sCD25 levels.
