Mean Platelet Volume and Mean Platelet Volume/Platelet Count Ratio Are Predictors of Late-Onset Sepsis in Preterm

Ipek Guney Varal1, Pelin Dogan1, Ezgi Acar Celik2

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Health Sciences Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Teaching Hospital, Bursa, Turkey.

Insights

Mean platelet volume (MPV) and mean platelet volume to platelet count ratio (MPR) were elevated in preterm infants with late-onset sepsis (LOS). These markers may aid in assessing LOS and identifying bacterial causes.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Hematology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Late-onset sepsis (LOS) is a significant concern in preterm infants.
  • Early diagnosis and assessment of LOS are crucial for effective management.
  • Platelet indices, including mean platelet volume (MPV) and mean platelet volume to platelet count ratio (MPR), are emerging biomarkers.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate MPV and MPR levels in preterm infants diagnosed with LOS.
  • To investigate the association between MPV and MPR and the specific bacterial pathogens causing LOS.
  • To determine the diagnostic utility of MPV and MPR in predicting LOS.

Main Methods:

  • A study was conducted on 136 preterm infants experiencing LOS.
  • MPV and MPR levels were measured at the onset of LOS.
  • Intra- and inter-group analyses were performed to assess these parameters.

Main Results:

  • Both MPV and MPR levels were significantly higher during LOS events (P < 0.001).
  • An MPV cutoff of >9.2 demonstrated 63% sensitivity and 73% specificity for predicting LOS (P < 0.001).
  • An MPR cutoff of >0.15 showed 88% sensitivity and 63% specificity for predicting Gram-negative LOS (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

  • Elevated MPV and MPR values may serve as valuable indicators for assessing LOS in preterm infants.
  • MPR, in particular, shows promise in predicting Gram-negative bacterial infections contributing to LOS.

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