Platelet Parameters and Red Cell Distribution Width as Diagnostic Markers for Early Diagnosis of Neonatal Sepsis. A Prospective Comparative study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Pediatric Department - Faculty of Medicine - Minia University - Egypt

2 Clinical Pathology Department - Faculty of Medicine - Minia University - Egypt,

Abstract

Background: Early identification of neonatal sepsis improves the outcomes. Therefore, identifying new diagnostic tests for newborn sepsis is crucial.
Aim: This study aimed to determine total platelet count (TPC), mean platelet volume (MPV), MPV/TPC ratio, platelet distribution width (PDW), and red cell distribution width (RDW) in neonates with sepsis and to evaluate their potential as early diagnostic indicators of newborn sepsis at Minia University Children's Hospital.
Methods: This one-year prospective comparative study was conducted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The study included 100 neonates, aged 28–38 weeks gestational age and within the first 28 days of life. Participants were divided into two groups: Group I (septic group), comprising 50 neonates exhibiting signs and symptoms suggestive of sepsis or with risk factors for sepsis; and Group II (control group), comprising 50 clinically stable neonates without risk factors for sepsis. All neonates underwent sepsis screening and clinical assessment.
Results: Significant variations were observed in the mean TPC, MPV, MPV/TPC ratio, PDW, and RDW between the septic and non-septic groups. The sensitivity and specificity values were as follows: TPC (cut-off <208.5×10³/µL), 84% and 88%; MPV (cut-off <9.95 fL), 80% and 88%; MPV/TPC (cut-off <0.065), 82% and 88%; PDW (cut-off <208.5), 84% and 88%; and RDW (cut-off <14.25%), 84% and 82%, respectively. All the parameters have a significant p-value <0.001.
Conclusions: Platelet parameters (TPC, MPV, and MPV/TPC ratio, PDW) and RDW a potential role in the early detection of sepsis in newborns.

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