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Platelet Indices: Universally Available Clinical Adjunct for Diagnosing Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Yair Kasirer1, Irina Shchors1, Cathy Hammerman1,2
1Department of Neonatology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
American Journal of Perinatology
|March 14, 2023
Summary
Platelet indices, like platelet count and RPR, can help diagnose necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in newborns. Mean platelet volume (MPV) specifically predicts NEC-related mortality, offering valuable clinical insights.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Hematology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Platelet function parameters are linked to adult disease severity.
- Limited research exists on platelet indices in neonatal diseases, particularly necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between platelet indices and NEC diagnosis.
- To determine if platelet indices predict NEC-related mortality in neonates.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of infants diagnosed with NEC and a matched control group.
- Evaluation of platelet count, mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width, and red cell distribution width to platelet ratio (RPR).
- Analysis of platelet parameters from birth to NEC diagnosis or day of life 14.
Main Results:
- Platelet count and RPR were significantly associated with both NEC diagnosis and mortality.
- Mean platelet volume (MPV) was not linked to NEC diagnosis but was predictive of NEC-related mortality.
- Changes in platelet count from birth to diagnosis were significant in multivariable analysis.
Conclusions:
- Platelet indices are valuable adjuncts for diagnosing NEC in preterm infants.
- Routinely available platelet parameters can aid in the early detection of NEC.
- MPV and changes in platelet count offer prognostic information for NEC.
