Variation of platelet parameters in preterm neonates
Background: Platelets play a crucial role in hemostasis and phagocytosis. These functions of platelets are acquired gradually from foetal life to infant life. Larger, immature platelets are more reactive and hence platelet mass indices may be indicative of the thrombotic potential of platelets.Methods: This study was conducted in Kempegowda institute of medical sciences and research centre attached hospital in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India between January, 2019 and July, 2020. Platelet count, mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW) was obtained from automated analyzer reports (SYSMEX XT 1800i). The statistical association between the gestational age, birth weight and gender of preterm and their platelet parameters, was then assessed.Results: In this study, the effect of gestational age, birth weight and gender on platelet parameters was studied. A significant correlation between PDW (platelet distribution width), MPV (mean platelet volume) and gestational age was found. It was found that with increasing gestational age, both PDW and MPV decreased. With respect to birth weight, the mean, median PDW significantly decreased with increasing birth weight. None of the platelet parameters were different between male and female preterm neonates.Conclusions: There still remains a paucity of studies regarding the correlation between platelet mass indices and gestational age and birth weight. While some studies show positive correlation, some studies show no correlation and this study shows negative correlation. Hence, this calls for more studies, with larger sample sizes, to be undertaken.