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Can Platelet Indices Be New Biomarkers for Subjective Tinnitus?
1*Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Şehitkamil Government Hospital, Gaziantep †Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Versa Medical Center, Nevşehir, Turkey.
Objectives:
Mean platelet volume (MPV) is one of the platelet function indices that reflect the platelet production rate and functions. The MPV levels are increased by vascular occlusion, acute or chronic syndromes, and vasculitis, whereas infections, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory situations reduce these levels. In this study, the authors investigated whether there was a relationship between platelet indices and subjective tinnitus.
Methods:
In this retrospective study, the authors evaluated platelet indices in subjective tinnitus patients. One hundred patients with subjective tinnitus and 100 healthy, age and sex-matched subjects were enrolled to the study. Audiometer and laboratory results were recorded. Comparative multivariate analyses between indicator factors and hearing outcomes were conducted.
Results:
Mean platelet volume is significantly lower in subjective tinnitus group (P < 0.001). Platelet count and platelet distribution width are higher in the subjective tinnitus than control group (P < 0.001, P < 0.003, respectively).
Conclusion:
The authors' findings indicate that subjective tinnitus appears to be characterized by autoimmune and inflammatory events. Considering the decreasing MPV levels, MPV may be used to evaluate subjective tinnitus as an helper indicator.
Insights
Mean platelet volume (MPV) is significantly lower in individuals with subjective tinnitus. Platelet count and distribution width were higher, suggesting a link between tinnitus and inflammatory processes.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Platelet indices, including Mean Platelet Volume (MPV), reflect platelet production and function.
- MPV levels are influenced by various conditions, with decreased levels associated with inflammatory and autoimmune states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between platelet indices and subjective tinnitus.
- To determine if platelet parameters can serve as indicators for subjective tinnitus.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 100 patients with subjective tinnitus and 100 age- and sex-matched healthy controls.
- Evaluation of audiometer and laboratory results, including platelet indices.
- Comparative multivariate analyses were performed.
Main Results:
- Mean platelet volume (MPV) was significantly lower in the subjective tinnitus group compared to controls (P < 0.001).
- Platelet count and platelet distribution width were significantly higher in patients with subjective tinnitus (P < 0.001 and P < 0.003, respectively).
Conclusions:
- Subjective tinnitus may be associated with underlying autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
- Decreased MPV levels show potential as an auxiliary indicator for evaluating subjective tinnitus.
