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Predictive Value of Mean Platelet Volume and Other CBC Indices for Thrombocytopenia in Pediatric Dengue Fever: A
Chau Duc Nguyen-Huu1, Nhu-Huy Pham2, Thi Lan Nguyen1
1Hue University, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam.
Insights
The MPV/PLT ratio effectively predicts severe thrombocytopenia in children with dengue fever. This simple, early marker helps identify high-risk pediatric patients, improving dengue management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Dengue fever poses a significant pediatric health threat.
- Thrombocytopenia is a critical indicator of dengue severity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the predictive accuracy of mean platelet volume (MPV), MPV-to-platelet ratio (MPV/PLT), and other complete blood count (CBC) indices for severe thrombocytopenia in pediatric dengue patients.
Main Methods:
- A prospective observational study included 127 children (1 month-15 years) diagnosed with dengue in Vietnam.
- Complete blood count parameters were analyzed on days 3 and 6 of illness.
- Severe thrombocytopenia was defined as a platelet count below 50,000/µL.
Main Results:
- Severe thrombocytopenia was observed in 15.7% of the pediatric cases.
- The MPV/PLT ratio on day 3 demonstrated the highest predictive value (AUC 0.818), with 75.0% sensitivity and 88.8% specificity.
- Elevated MPV, low platelet count, and low lymphocyte count were also significant predictors.
Conclusions:
- The MPV/PLT ratio serves as a straightforward and early indicator for identifying children at high risk of severe thrombocytopenia in dengue infections.
- This finding can aid in timely clinical intervention and management of pediatric dengue.
Introduction:
Dengue fever is a major pediatric health challenge, with thrombocytopenia as a key severity marker.
Objectives:
To assess the predictive value of mean platelet volume, MPV-to-platelet ratio, and other complete blood count (CBC) indices for severe thrombocytopenia in pediatric dengue.
Methods:
This prospective observational study enrolled 127 children (1 month-15 years) with confirmed dengue at Hue Central Hospital, Vietnam (January 2023-July 2025). CBC parameters were measured on illness days 3 and 6. Severe thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet count <50 000/µL.
Results:
Severe thrombocytopenia occurred in 15.7% of patients. Day 3 MPV/PLT ratio was the strongest predictor (median 0.10 vs 0.05, P < .001; AUC 0.818; sensitivity 75.0%; specificity 88.8%). Elevated MPV, low platelet and lymphocyte counts were also significant. NLR showed moderate value, while PLR and SII were not predictive.
Conclusion:
MPV/PLT is a simple, early marker for identifying high-risk children with dengue.
