Analysis of Platelet Indices and Its Predictive Value in Diagnosis of Thrombocytopenia

Abstract

BACKGROUND Thrombocytopenia can be due to decreased production of platelets in bone marrow or due to increased destruction. Aetiology of thrombocytopenia can be evaluated by determination of platelet indices, whether it is hypoproductive or hyperdestructive type. Platelet indices (MPV, PDW, P-LCR, Platelet-Crit) are simple, cost-effective, non-invasive and reliable tool to differentiate types of thrombocytopenias. The main objective of the study was to evaluate the variation and relationship of platelet indices in hypoproductive and hyperdestructive thrombocytopenia cases. MATERIALS AND METHODS Automated Haematology Analyzer Sysmex XN-1000i is used to assess platelet indices. 70 cases of thrombocytopenia were included in our study. Inclusion and exclusion criteria applied. RESULTS This study includes 70 patients of thrombocytopenia over a period of 2 months, who were classified into hypoproductive (32 cases) and hyperdestructive (38 cases). The mean platelet count in hypoproduction group was (56.5 ± 18.5) x 103/mm and mean platelet indices were MPV= (10.6 ± 0.12) fL, PDW= (10.6 ± 0.13) fL, P-LCR= (28.93 ± 1.3) % and Platelet-Crit (0.05 ± 0.02). The mean platelet count of hyperdestructive group (41.3 ± 15.3) x 103/mm, mean platelet indices MPV= (11.4 ± 0.89) fL, PDW= (12.2 ± 2.16) fL, P-LCR= (36.1 ± 5.3) % and Platelet-Crit (0.05 ± 0.01). CONCLUSION The combined interpretation of MPV, PDW and P-LCR by automated cell counters can be very useful parameters in differentiating thrombocytopenias due to various aetiologies. Platelet indices showed inverse relationship with platelet count as they are increased in hyperdestructive type and shows linear relationship in hypoproliferative type. Platelet-Crit is a less sensitive parameter to differentiate these thrombocytopenias.