Changes in mean platelet volume and hematologic indices in patients with panic disorder due to oxidative stress

Cardiovascular disorders are common in patients with panic disorder (PD), usually mediated by platelets. The present study was conducted to evaluate oxidative stress conditions and complete analysis of blood cells in patients with PD.

Sixty healthy individuals and 60 patients were included in the study. Whole blood and serum samples were obtained from patients and controls.

Hematological studies, including blood cells count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, were carried out on whole blood samples. In addition, oxidative stress indices including total antioxidant capacity, free oxygen species, and malondialdehyde concentration were measured in serum samples.

Results showed that patients with PD had a significant increase in mean platelet volume index (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), red blood cell distribution width (RDW), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) compared with healthy subjects (p < .05). Also, oxidative stress indices were significantly elevated in patients with PD compared with control group (p < .05).

Elevated MPV is a hematologic indicator for patients with PD. This disorder may be caused by impaired serotonin metabolism, resulting in increased oxidative stress, as well as in platelet serotonin transporters. Regarding elevated oxidative stress, the risk of cardiovascular complications is high in patients with PD.