Platelet count as a prognostic indicator in burn septicemia

Evaluation of platelet count and its significance in early detection of post burn septicemia for commencement of timely vigorous treatment against it. Studies investigating the role of platelets and platelet count in burn patients are rare, rather old and mostly presenting case reports. Septicemia is the most important cause of mortality in burns. Burn patients can only be saved if septicemia is detected early which requires very sensitive prognostic indicator. Total 594 adult burn patients were studied, by observing them for septicemia and studying their subsequent platelet counts using visual method. In non-survivors (256) gradual decline in platelet count was observed and minimal platelet count was observed before death of the patient, while in survivors (338) gradual rise in platelet count was observed. No significant variation observed in other laboratory parameters such as total neutrophil count and serum creatinine. In significant number of non survivor (62.11%) platelet count was low before their death and in significant number of survivor (86.09%) platelet count was normal before their discharge. Thus it is conclude that serial declining platelet count is a very sensitive prognostic factor in early detection of post burn septicemia.