Serial platelet parameter dynamics in sepsis and the prognostic value of day 7 measurements: A retrospective study

BackgroundSepsis is a significant public health concern associated with high prevalence and mortality rates. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of platelet count, plateletcrit level, mean platelet volume, and platelet distribution width in patients with sepsis.MethodsThe study cohort included 48 patients diagnosed with sepsis, who were allocated to the sepsis group, and 34 patients admitted with infections who did not meet the diagnostic criteria for sepsis, who were allocated to the infection group. Complete blood count was performed for all patients, which included evaluation of platelet count and other parameters (plateletcrit level, mean platelet volume, and platelet distribution width) as well as C-reactive protein levels within 24 h of admission and again on days 3 and 7. Patients in the sepsis group were monitored until discharge or death and categorized into two subgroups based on outcomes: survivors (39 patients) and nonsurvivors (9 patients).ResultsStatistically significant differences were identified in the platelet count, plateletcrit level, mean platelet volume, and platelet distribution width between the sepsis and infection groups (all p < 0.05). Platelet count and plateletcrit level exhibited negative correlations with the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score (r = -0.657 and -0.638, all p < 0.05), whereas mean platelet volume and platelet distribution width exhibited positive correlations (r = 0.331 and 0.298, all p < 0.05). Additionally, platelet count and plateletcrit level were inversely associated with C-reactive protein levels (r = -0.346 and -0.327, all p < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that platelet counts had the highest diagnostic value for sepsis, with an area under the curve of 0.864, sensitivity of 94.12%, and specificity of 73.47%. In the dynamic monitoring of platelet parameters, significant differences in platelet count and plateletcrit level were observed in the prognosis group by day 7.ConclusionAdmission platelet count and related parameters serve as specific diagnostic predictors of sepsis. Dynamic monitoring of platelet count and plateletcrit level on day 7 can guide aggressive management strategies to improve outcomes in patients with sepsis.